The Chimes

Issue date: 3/11/10 Section: News

Members of city council look on as David Comisford pleads with Bexley council to allow him to keep his spot at Pleasant Ridge and Mound Street. Comisford has bought textbooks from Capital students at that location since 2007.

Comisford continues to make his case to city council. Some Capital students attended the meeting to show their support for Comisford and his book-buyback business. Media Credit: Glenn Cline

Students looking for ways to sell their books during exam week may have one less option.

Recent Capital graduate David Comisford has been buying textbooks from students since 2007.

This year Bexley may not let him operate his book tent at its normal location on the corner of Pleasant Ridge and Mound Street.

Comisford had managed his tent for three years without issue.

He had obtained a permit from the city for vendors, although he technically does not need one because he does not sell any products, he only buys them.

The problem arose when Comisford was told he was breaking a city loitering law, which states that sidewalks must be left clear and unobstructed.

Comisford went to Bexley City Council on Tuesday to plead his case and ask for a special permit.

"This is my full time job," Comisford said. "The location is critical. My business would essentially be shut down."

Comisford tried to convince the council members that this stand would also be good for Bexley.

"Students sell their books and get cash, which puts money back into Bexley's economy," Comisford said.

Not all council members took Comisford's side.

"We can't have someone standing on the sidewalk impeding people, if for no other reason than it breaks the law," City Attorney Lou Chodosh said.

The council went on to suggest that Comisford ask a private business if he could set up on their property, or perhaps operate his business out of a pickup truck in a parking space.

Comisford said that the location on campus was extremely important, and students attending the meeting agreed.

"[The tent] is by the main parking lot," Shaunda Brooks, Capital student, said. "It's perfect for business."

Student Government Vice President Gabe Koshinsky also came to the meeting to show his support.

"My campaign promise was to help students," Koshinsky said. "He's not selling Playboys; he is running a legitimate business."

Comisford pointed out to council members that they have an annual farmers market that takes place on the sidewalks, and they do not consider that breaking the law.

"I don't want charity, I want fair treatment," Comisford said. "I need that location for the largest market possible. Students walk by, they see the tent. They don't want to walk a mile to make five bucks."

The council agreed that it was an interesting situation after Comisford pointed out the farmers market parallel.

They said they would refer the issue to the proper committee and get a decision to Comisford no later than April 13.

After the meeting, Comisford thought the council would sympathise with his case.

"I think it went well. I think there will be a positive outcome," he said.

By Ben Ferree
Contributor
bferree@capital.edu

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