By Vincentt Garofalo Santa Monica
In the beginning, the vending cart program was about low rent for arts and crafts. When it was realized there was money to be made it became a commercial enterprise.
We must not forget that the Third Street Promenade is public property and not to be used for private industry for commercialism.
Two very important facts: 1. You cannot close a public street to make a commercial venue. 2. You cannot rent public space. It is to be shared on a first-come basis. The city of Santa Monica know what they are doing is against federal law but continue to show arrogance to the people. And so, the city of Santa Monica should lower the rents on the vending carts and allow only free-speech activity or arts and crafts.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on September 28, 2005. Read the original PDF.