Action items before the Hastings City Council included the Mobile Food Unit ordinance amendment that will be used guide the location, frequency and scope proposed for food trucks in the downtown area as well as in other locations of the city. Discussion followed with questions raised on the effect these independent food sellers may have on established businesses depending on how many times they are allowed to do business in the downtown, where they will be allowed to park and how to police or collect data to determine how the ordinance will best serve the city.
Council member Folch and Balsanek brought concerns from downtown businesses about frequency, location and impact on longtime businesses that have waited for the boom the years of development have now delivered. More discussion followed that asked for some assessment on how the ordinance works and whether a set number limit could be imposed. The Downtown Businesss Association, it was noted by Mayor Hicks, had asked the council for the ordinance definition, however, not all downtown businesses or property owners are represented by the Association. Another consideration is traffic and pedestrian safety around the units, which will be allowed to occupy 2 parking spaces and must supply all power needed and remove trash generated by their visit.
It was suggested by Councilmember Lund that a mid summer conversation be scheduled to gauge the effects, number of unit requests and overall impact of the ordinance. The public safety committee, chaired by Laurie Brauchs with members Leifeld and Folch will review data and provide those responses to the council at a later date.
