1 of 2
File photo by Jeremy Lange
Chapel Hill is considering crafting new rules to provide better access for food trucks such as Captain Poncho's Tacos, seen here parked at the corner of Merritt Mill and Franklin streets.
2 of 2
File photo by Jeremy Lange
Chapel Hill is considering crafting new rules to provide better access for food trucks such as Captain Poncho's Tacos, seen here parked at the corner of Merritt Mill and Franklin streets.
Chapel Hill Principal Planner Kendal Brown also reported that there are 95 bars and eateries downtown and the dining market shows “no growth potential for the short-term.” But she also noted that, “it is possible that two different potential customer pools exist in the downtown—one that is more inclined toward indoor sit-down meals and the other preferring quick food.”
Durham and Carrboro allow food trucks. Raleigh is considering a new ordinance. In Chapel Hill, trucks are permitted to park on private lots for special events after receiving clearance from the Parks and Recreation Department. That process would remain in place for events such as Festifall even if new rules pass.
Council members Laurin Easthom and Sally Greene each favored the Carrboro model, where trucks are permitted to park in non-residential lots and no complaints have been made. Each said they think food trucks can add to the character of the town without siphoning business from brick and mortar restaurants.
But Council member Ed Harrison said Durham shouldn't be used as a guide because the city has more space available for trucks to park.
“I know the available real estate for this kind of thing in Durham, and it's a different planet entirely,” he said.
Council member Penny Rich questioned who will enforce the rules and how much it will cost.
“Do we have to hire someone to know the regulations in and out?” she asked. “Who will be up at 2 a.m. to check it out if?”
Ward said he's interested in allowing food trucks but he wants to make sure they add something to the marketplace that isn't already available. He asked town staff to consider writing rules for mobile operators that would “welcome them if it's something not already available and if it was already available they probably should do business elsewhere.”
Added Council member Donna Bell, “We are not known as the Foodie City for nothing. We won't eat just anything.”
The group elected to hold another public hearing on the issue in September. In the meantime, staff will consider possible fees, a permitting process and what limits to place on hours and locations.