Bartlett is taking steps to introduce mobile food vending trucks to the city, ensuring that appropriate regulations are in place for these businesses. On October 24, the Bartlett Board of Mayor and Aldermen unanimously approved the first of three readings for an ordinance allowing food trucks to operate within the city, expanding their presence beyond special events, where they are currently permitted.
The popularity of food trucks has surged in recent years, prompting many cities in the region to consider implementing regulations to govern their operations. Bartlett’s proposed ordinance draws inspiration from a model in Franklin, Tennessee. These trucks offer customers a diverse and more appealing array of dining options compared to traditional fast food establishments. Operating without the high costs associated with brick-and-mortar locations allows food truck owners to offer their products at more competitive prices.
The initial Bartlett proposal suggested vendors acquire a mobile vending permit valid for one year, but some board members expressed concerns about the permit’s duration. Alderman Jack Young voiced his apprehension, stating, “I don’t think we need permanent food trucks in Bartlett,” as he believes it provides a straightforward way for newcomers to enter the business and compete with established restaurants. “I wouldn’t support anything that includes permanent food trucks,” he added.
To address these concerns, Kim Taylor, Bartlett’s director of planning and community development, proposed shorter permit durations, possibly three or six months, to encourage food trucks to rotate between different locations. Applicants would also be required to submit site plans for their truck locations and meet various certification and inspection requirements. Additionally, they must provide proof of liability insurance and have fire suppression systems in place.
Under the proposed regulations, food trucks would be allowed in various settings, including office, commercial, industrial, and mixed-use developments, as well as civic, institutional, parks, and other public areas.
Alderwoman Monique Williams, who owns the Biscuits & Jams restaurant in Bartlett, emphasized the importance of ensuring that food trucks adhere to waste disposal requirements set by the county health department. She suggested that confirming waste disposal locations is crucial to prevent litter on the city’s streets.
Both Williams and Alderman David Reaves, co-owner of Side Porch Steakhouse in Bartlett, expressed their desire to protect existing businesses that pay taxes to the city. They want to ensure that mobile food trucks do not set up in locations that could negatively impact sales for these established businesses.
A point of concern is the tax revenue generated by mobile food trucks. Bartlett would not benefit from the local option sales tax if these trucks are considered home-based businesses with owners residing outside of Bartlett. Such taxes would go to the municipality where the owners’ home addresses are located. David Reaves stressed the importance of striking a balance between diversifying the city’s culinary landscape and avoiding an overabundance of food trucks.
While the board has approved the first reading, they are open to adjusting the permit duration before the public hearing and final reading scheduled for November 28.