Eight letters asking downtown businesses to clear Roanoke Avenue sidewalks of merchandise were sent Friday. The businesses have until this Friday to clear the items or face $50 per day fines.

The city has received several complaints of businesses along the avenue displaying their merchandise, Planning and Development Director Amanda Jarratt said, and the city has no choice but to enforce the ordinance, which is addressed in 98.03 of the city’s general regulations.

The provision explains it is unlawful to cook or sell food, have shoeshine operations, or display goods for sale or advertisement.

The law does have a provision for loading or unloading goods in front of stores if there is no delivery space in the alley.

The letter, sent last Friday, simply states no merchandise, goods for selling, advertisement or any other purpose may be placed on any sidewalk.

Jarratt said those wishing to comment may contact her at 252-533-2844, their city council representative or request to be put on the public comment section during the regular city council meeting.

Meanwhile, Mayor Emery Doughtie spoke with business owners on the avenue this morning as well as the city’s code enforcement office.

Doughtie said the law has been on the books since 1973 as it is currently written but probably predates that because it addresses the sale of food through fish stands and poultry coops.

The mayor, who believes the law should be reviewed, said business owners believe they need to put merchandise on the sidewalk so potential customers can see what they have and to draw them in their stores.

Doughtie has discussed the matter with Main Street Director Charles Williams and requested that he talk with the business owners about their needs.

Business owners are encouraged to talk with their council representatives about getting on a work session agenda. Work sessions are held the first Tuesday of the month at 5:15 p.m. at city hall on Roanoke Avenue. Council meetings are held the second Tuesday of every month at the Lloyd Andrews City Meeting Hall on Jackson Street at 7 p.m.

Doughtie said he wants the city to discuss the matter, “To see if we can reach a happy medium ... We encourage them to get together with other business people so all can express their concerns.”