Shop owners in Altadena want to crack down on street vendors who block sidewalks, hurting business

ALTADENA, Calif. (KABC) — As the sun sets in Altadena, the vendors emerge. Companies say this is a problem.

“We are held to a certain standard and there is no standard for how these people operate,” said Tadesse Mehari, who has operated a 7-Eleven for 30 years.

He says vendors use the parking spaces on his property and then sell on the sidewalk.

“We’re trying to stop them, but we can’t watch them every minute,” says Mehari.

Some businesses say vendors on these blocks have such extensive kitchen equipment and other facilities that it poses safety risks and problems for people trying to make ends meet.

These companies turned to their CEOs and demanded that something be done.

“They’re upset because there are people in wheelchairs, mothers with strollers who can’t use the sidewalks. This affects their ability to get to and from their destination, especially school,” said District Manager Kathryn Barger, who represents the region.

Some people say that the vendors sell not only food but also car parts and household items, making it difficult to walk around.

“I have to walk around the street to get back on the sidewalk and walk down the street,” said Jashawna West, who lives in Altadena. She says they shouldn’t be on the sidewalk.

“You’re sitting there eating in the parking lot and it’s just not right. You don’t have a license. No, nothing to serve,” adds Mehari.

According to Barger, the board will have to address the issue of regulating providers later. Right now it’s about making sure the sidewalks are safe.

“This issue today is more about right-of-way and making sure our sidewalks are kept clear so that people, especially people with disabilities, have the opportunity to use the sidewalk,” Barger said.