Minutes - Economic Development Authority - 09/08/2022

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Economic Development Manager Sullivan replied that he does understand that argument but there are not that many food trucks in the community and did not anticipate an influx based on the implementation of a new ordinance. He stated that he would find it hard pressed for the ownership of the Acapulco development to allow a food truck because of the restaurant being in the development. He noted that if it were to happen, he did not think it would happen more than once because the restaurant would most likely voice concern to the ownership, who would want to protect their tenant. Member MacLennan stated that he likes food trucks, but in a certain venue. Economic Development Manager Sullivan stated that this is the type of feedback he expected from the EDA, and it is on point. He noted that Anoka is the only community around the area that does not allow food trucks, with the exception of its food truck festival. He stated that if Connexus wanted to bring in a food truck for their employees, this would provide that opportunity and would also ensure the truck is licensed and follows proper health and safety measures. He noted that if the EDA only wants to allow food trucks for special events, that could be the recommendation. Member Stewart asked if an employer bringing in a food truck would be considered a special event. Economic Development Manager Sullivan replied that special events are handled in a different way than a Transient Merchant License. He stated that a special event is a more extensive process as it is reviewed by police and fire in addition to the other departments involved. He noted that it would be more administrative work for different departments. Member Stewart stated that there are a lot of industrial businesses in the community that may wish to bring in a food truck for employees and perhaps the special event process may deter an employer from choosing that. Member Johnson asked if there is an estimate of the number of food trucks in the area. Economic Development Manager Sullivan replied that he was unsure but could look into it. Member Johnson stated that she does not anticipate there is a large number of food trucks in the area. She commented that this would be a good way to make food trucks attractive to the area and perhaps one of those businesses may consider Ramsey if they get to the point where they want a sit-down location. Member Riley commented that he likes the draft ordinance concept. He recognized that they do not want food trucks to compete with local restaurants but also recognized the trend. He asked if the draft ordinance was developed using a template or based off other cities. Economic Development Manager Sullivan replied that this process began in 2019 with a review of many different ordinances of other communities. He noted that originally the intent was to create a section within Transient Merchant Licenses, but it was too messy and therefore the idea Economic Development Authority/September 8, 2022 Page 5 of 9