9.1. SR 11-20-2017 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

EOty1� ,.,�� Request for Action River To Item Number Mayor and City Council 9.1 Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by Work Session November 20, 2017 Tina Allard, City Clerk Item Description Reviewed by Should Food Trucks be Allowed and Regulated Cal Portner, City Administrator Reviewed by Action Requested Council discussion: 1. Would Council like to see food trucks in Elk River? 2. Would Council like to regulate food trucks similar to how other vendors are regulated? Background/Discussion A taproom will soon open downtown and the owners have inquired about the occasional use of food trucks. Taprooms and food trucks typically operate hand in hand. Food truck operators have also expressed an interest in operating in our community. Food trucks are growing in popularity as they serve various public and private events such as farmers markets,park events,graduation parties,business parks, as a complement to established food service businesses, or in high traffic pedestrian areas. In preparation for this discussion, staff posted an informal community conversation question on social media and respondents overwhelmingly supported food truck sales. Like other transient merchants such as ice cream trucks,hot dog stands,greenhouses, fireworks stands, product solicitors,food trucks can get lost in a number of city requirements from zoning to licensing. If the council chooses to permit food truck sales an ordinance specific to food trucks is recommended. In researching the subject, there tends to be four areas of concern: Public Health- Food trucks are required to have certain licenses from the State of Minnesota and cities request documentation showing they meet state law for kitchen preparation, sanitation,inspections, and food handling requirements. Use of Public Space - Cities are divided on whether to allow food trucks to use public spaces. The space most used by trucks is space on public streets,which are likely in areas with more density and foot traffic, such as downtowns. Some cities also allow trucks in parks. Public Safety - Cities typically have regulations for traffic safety and visibility,just as you might see for a standard commercial development. The Elk River Vision A PehoMing community 2a itb revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional POWERED By service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity INAMIRE1