A review aimed at reducing red tape for pop-up retailers using trading permits in the City of Mandurah has been approved by councillors, despite backlash from a small business owner concerned over the regulations.
While guidelines for the permits were adopted in February 2018, several recommendations were put to council focused at improving customer service, their management, distribution and governance.
The review included looking into the fee structure, locations traders could be situated in, what time they were permitted to stay there, the length they could operate for and what allowances could be given for "semi-permanent space activation" and market.
The proposed changes were presented for council's consideration in early March, however, were delayed after council declared the issue was too "delicate" and more information needed to be gathered.
That hindrance came after local Muzz Buzz franchisee Brad Hope presented a deputation at council's March 13 meeting.
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At the time, Mr Hope outlined several concerns including how loosening regulations on mobile traders had a detrimental effect on his fixed business.
When the full council was assembled for an official meeting on April 30, 10 councillors voted in favour of the recommendations and one voted against.
That contrasting vote was made by Town Ward councillor Dave Schumacher.
After hearing Mr Hope's woes, Mr Schumacher said he had concerns the modification would affect established businesses and in turn he could not vote in favour of the motion.
Some of the approved changes involved listing locations where the City of Mandurah would like trading to occur in the City Centre Waterfront Precinct Concept Plans and providing guidelines and assessment criteria for the consistent decision making of applications for trading permits applications on public land.
In regards to a review of the fee structure, the council noted there needed to be an introduction of a quarterly fee of $650 for mobile traders to the Schedule of Fees and Charges for 2019/2020.
It also noted the introduction of a monthly fee of $100 for commercial and aquatic operators to the Schedule of Fees and Charges for 2019/2020.
To read more about the review of the trading permit guidelines, visit the City of Mandurah's website and view their latest meeting minutes.
