Thank you for reaching out and for sharing the petition regarding the ordinance affecting Stockton’s street vendors. I appreciate the strong community voice behind it—1,772 signatures is powerful, and it speaks to how deeply people care about protecting these vital small businesses.

I want to be clear: I support the presence and contribution of street vendors in our city. They bring vibrancy, culture, and opportunity—especially for immigrant, working-class, and non-English speaking communities who often face the greatest barriers.

Currently, our vendor ordinance is out of compliance with state standards, and the city is working to resolve that. I am actively engaged in conversations with city staff, vendors, and legal experts to find a solution that does not criminalize vendors or place unfair burdens on those just trying to make an honest living.

My commitment is to ensure that equity and compassion remain at the forefront of any policy decisions made. We can—and must—create systems that work with our communities, not against them.

Thank you again for advocating. I’ll continue to push for a solution that protects both public safety and economic opportunity for all Stockton residents.

In solidarity,

Council Member Padilla