Bartlett Gives Green Light to Food Trucks and Contemplates Changes to Liquor Laws
The culinary landscape in Bartlett’s public spaces and city-owned venues is set to become more vibrant. On November 28, the Board of Mayor and Aldermen in the city unanimously approved the third and final reading of a new ordinance governing mobile food vending. Additionally, they greenlit a second reading to amend an ordinance, allowing the inclusion of adult beverages during special events at city parks and facilities.
Several adjustments were made to the mobile food vending ordinance since its initial reading on October 24. To prevent vendors from monopolizing specific locations, the board imposed restrictions on the time they can operate in a particular spot. However, in industrial districts, food trucks will be allowed once a week, with a maximum of three trucks on a property, according to Bartlett’s Planning and Development Director, Kim Taylor.
Vendors are now required to have liability insurance and a waste disposal plan. Those setting up in proximity to an existing brick-and-mortar restaurant will need a special permit.
The board’s approval of the second reading to permit adult beverages during special events at city parks and facilities faced some reservations, particularly from Alderman and Vice Mayor Jack Young. Expressing concern about the potential negative consequences of increased alcohol consumption, Young abstained from voting and remains uncertain about supporting it as a permanent city ordinance.
Other aldermen, such as Robert Griffin, expressed support for the change. Despite personal reservations about alcohol consumption, Griffin believes representing the community’s desires is crucial. He sees the ordinance change as a business opportunity, citing the chance for a return on the city’s investment in renovating the Bartlett Station Municipal Center. Griffin highlighted the potential profitability of the venue, which had previously turned away wedding events due to alcohol restrictions.
The proposed changes to the alcohol ordinance will undergo a public hearing during the upcoming board meeting on December 12, marking the third and final reading of the ordinance.