Town Nixes Ban That Led to Fight Over Shave Ice

Taylor Swift also has a home in Westerly, RI

A Rhode Island coastal town where singer Taylor Swift has a home has rescinded a ban on street vendors that led to a lengthy fight over a shave ice stand.

The Westerly Sun reports that the town council on Monday amended an ordinance that banned street vendors except at special events, purportedly for safety and traffic concerns.

Under the change, 12 licenses will be available.

After the ban was enacted last year, shave ice stand owner George Manko defied it, saying it was unfair. Some residents rallied in his defense.

Manko said after the council meeting that it shows a peaceful act of civil disobedience can be effective.

Sixteen counts are still pending against Manko in municipal court for violating the ordinance.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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