Bill to ban peddlers
in Chinatown advances
A bill that was introduced to ban peddling on Chinatown sidewalks moved a step closer to law yesterday.
The City Council gave final approval to a bill that outlaws un-permitted peddling on public sidewalks, malls, parks and beaches.
The bill, introduced by Councilman Rod Tam, was originally aimed at clearing peddlers --- many of whom are elderly immigrants selling backyard produce and homemade goods -- from the city-owned Kekaulike Mall in Chinatown.
Area store owners have complained that peddlers can sell on the mall yet they do not have to pay rent. Tam said he has also heard concerns that some of the peddlers sell their goods to earn extra money -- "but I believe they still have that opportunity to conduct that activity through the ... People's Open Market," he said.
Lynne Matusow, chairwoman of the Downtown Neighborhood Board, testified, "This bill basically is addressing all of the problems."
Wendell Lum told the Council that he could not support the bill wholeheartedly.
"I go shopping there. I like the ambience and the prices. I think maybe you can control those vendors that are peddlers by ... some standards. But I think by telling them to go to open markets, they don't have the volume, and I think it may restrict what they sell."
The bill was expanded to include the sidewalks surrounding City Hall and the municipal building.
Any violations could lead to a fine of up to $1,000.
The bill goes to Mayor Jeremy Harris.
