Franklin leaders to weigh options on 'Contributor' sales - WSMV Channel 4

A meeting Tuesday did not spell the end of street vending in Franklin after all. Selling The Contributor newspaper on city sidewalks is a thorny issue, and there are new alternatives besides an outright ban.

The Contributor is a newspaper sold by the homeless, and proceeds from it go to homeless people.

The city of Brentwood recently approved an ordinance to keep vendors from selling to vehicle occupants from sidewalks.

As it stands now, selling papers within a city right-of-way is not allowed, but city alderman are now considering three options before making a final decision.

The first option would allow selling the papers on a public sidewalk only, and in-vehicle sales would be prohibited. That option would likely drastically cut down on Contributor sales.

The second option would allow sales to the passenger side of a stopped vehicle in the curb lane adjacent to the sidewalk.

The third option would limit the time of day or the time of year when sales would be permitted.

Contributor founder Tasha French Lemley said the second option is the preferred choice for her vendors.

A fourth option would leave the law the way it is, and Franklin aldermen intend to take final vote on the issue March 12.

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