Currently vendors in Monroe County must pay $1,200 for permits to work as a prepared food vendor in just one local farmer's market.

Today, County Legislator Willie Lightfoot announced plans to have that fee reduced to a flat rate of just $150.

Vendors feel that is more in line with what other food vendors pay. Warren Thomas, founder of the Westside Farmer’s Market said, “Restaurants pay only about $300 a year to be certified and they are certified to serve 365 days a year for $300. A hot dog vendor pays $150 and they can serve 365 days a year. The republicans will tell you it is a burden to go and look at the farmers market for just 22 days. If anything, we are subsidizing the hot dog carts and restaurants.”
 
Lightfoot says he will put his flat rate fee proposal before the county legislature at the next session.

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