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Concerns voiced over proposal aimed at Strip peddlers

Southern Nevada politicians are hoping they can drive unlicensed peddlers from Strip sidewalks without starting a crackdown on neighborhood lemonade stands or creating other unintended consequences.

On Tuesday the Clark County Commission advanced a proposal that would make it a misdemeanor for people to stand on sidewalks and sell bottled water, T-shirts and other items to passers-by.

The idea was to put an end to sidewalk vendors who prowl the Strip making impromptu pitches to sightseers.

Concerns discussed before the commission voted unanimously to schedule a July 3 hearing on the issue included whether fallout from the move could be more than commissioners bargained for.

"I sure don't want to affect lemonade stands," said Commissioner Steve Sisolak of the prospect that children looking to earn pocket money could find themselves in trouble with the law.

"It might make sense that in a year we review it and see if there is any problem," Commissioner Chris Giunchigliani said. "I don't think it is a problem, or, hopefully it won't be a problem."

Ordinance supporters say sidewalk sellers annoy visitors and are unfair to businesses that pay for overhead such as licenses, rent and employee costs. The proposed ordinance wouldn't affect handbillers who distribute fliers for adult entertainment and escort services, people who earn tips by dressing in costumes and posing for photos with tourists or street performers.

Mary-Anne Miller, commission counsel, said attempting to get rid of Strip sidewalk vendors without risking unintended consequences could be complicated.

"We can't treat the cute little kids differently than ugly people selling things on the sidewalk," she said.

After the vote, Sisolak suggested the ordinance could be tweaked to limit it to the Resort Corridor, a stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard South from Russell Road to Sahara Avenue.

Contact reporter Benjamin Spillman at bspillman@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0285.

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