MEHKO ordinance

Novato resident supported the pilot as an equity measure but said 100 permits is not enough and noted the fee-waiver areas matter to Novato.

Canal Alliance entrepreneurship supervisor introduced several local vendors supporting the MEHKO ordinance.

A Canal food vendor, speaking through translation, said vendors have waited a long time for permits to sell legally.

Community organizer supporting Canal vendors; asked whether applicants need a social security number or legal status, and urged expanding beyond 100 permits and adding hands-on application workshops.

A mobile vendor from Mexico said commercial kitchen rents are unaffordable and the program would let her follow food safety rules while selling legally.

Speaking in Spanish, asked the board to pass MEHKO as a stepping stone toward eventually opening a restaurant.

Described fear of selling food on the street and rising rents; asked for a license so she can support her family safely.

Agricultural Institute of Marin manager said the program creates the missing affordable first step for food entrepreneurs.

Owner of Sweet Teas Pastries said MEHKO bridges the cottage-food/commercial-kitchen gap and could bring more Black-owned soul food businesses to Marin.

Marin County Free Library employee translated for Angélica and relayed vendors' frustration over discarded food and fines.

Canal resident supporting licenses for vendors who sell out of economic need amid high rents.

Canal Alliance entrepreneurship team member said MEHKOs give families financial stability where the job market and housing fall short.

Spoke in support of the ordinance, saying vendors deserve respect and legal authorization rather than having their food confiscated.

Speaking for the Cook Alliance, cited research showing 97% of MEHKOs draw zero complaints and strong economic outcomes; urged adoption.

West Marin Food Systems Group reaffirmed full support, citing barriers for BIPOC entrepreneurs and ag diversification in West Marin.

UC Cooperative Extension food systems advisor conveyed Marin Food Policy Council support and urged centering equity and fee waivers.

Fairfax resident with food-entrepreneur background called MEHKOs a win-win for opportunity and cultural food heritage.

Marin SBDC representative said clients — many low-income immigrants — need an affordable legal path; called it an economic justice issue.