MEHKO program

Asked the city to help cover permit and inspection costs for home cooks who already invested in their kitchens.

Speaking for Cook Alliance, supported removing the landlord letter requirement and asked for fee waivers to keep the program accessible.

Orale's economic justice coordinator said even landlord notification creates fear for renters and asked the city to fund permit costs.

Urged general acknowledgement language only, no landlord notice, and asked the city to return with grant opportunities to offset costs.

A District 9 Orale member asked the council to approve the MEHKO program without requiring landlord authorization.

A landlord, vendor and tenant herself, said management companies are often the real barrier and urged keeping permit costs low.

With the Vendors Justice Committee, cited Cook Alliance data showing 95%+ of MEHKO operators draw zero complaints and urged trust in home cooks.