New Times / Letter To The Editor

Street vendors help Arroyo Grande

Dennis E. Smith

Street vendors have been part of a market-run society since the dawn of man, bringing a symbiotic relationship to the surrounding businesses and ambiance to the communities. Take for example, the Arroyo Grande Strawberry Festival, Harvest Festival, and farmers’ markets.

 The local street vendors buy their flowers from local growers in the county, ensuring only the freshest product. Nothing is shipped from outside the county or refrigerated for extended periods. This supports the economy of Arroyo Grande and surrounding communities. Regarding Santa Maria banning street vendors: They are still there but have found ways to stay within city code.

Instead of complaining about street vendors (“Ban street-corner vendors in AG,” Feb. 25)—who pay taxes, vote, and participate in the community—businesses should respect them.