by Nicky Boyette
Alderman James DeVito addressed the Planning Commission at its Feb. 23 meeting to clarify what city council expected regarding food trucks in town – determine how food trucks and trailers mesh with City Code, identify concerns with use of city streets, and highlight zoning issues.
DeVito pointed out the unique Eureka Springs downtown and its narrow streets and sidewalks present a different set of variables in accommodating mobile food vendors than Fayetteville or Rogers, so Planning could recommend appropriate locations and times of operation. He expected council to consider creating a franchise framework with clearly defined parameters, and suggestions from Planning would help them begin.
Chair Steve Beacham said one place to start would be locations, and there were no public spaces along US 62 except the parking lot at the top of Planer Hill, which he said he has been advised not to pursue.
Commissioner Pat Lujan added he could see no spots on North Main except private property. He would not want to take away space at the Music Park because the parking lot is packed on weekends, and wanted to avoid using limited parking in town for mobile food vendors.
Commissioner Melissa Greene commented it appeared to her food trucks could be approved in the C-1 and C-2 zones. She also noticed a person with enough private property could start a food court as long as city health codes were followed.
Commissioner James Morris suggested the Fayetteville rules for food trucks could be a guide, but Eureka Springs would need to adapt them. He said if the city does not find a way to accommodate food trucks, it would be losing a potential asset.
Greene agreed food trucks would be a benefit because they are new and different, but did not see they would fit downtown where parking is at a premium unless it were at night after businesses close.
Discussion touched on several particulars of public versus private property, permitted versus prohibited uses in Code, and how handy it would be if a food truck were outside at that moment. Commissioners settled on suggesting that a specific ordinance be crafted which permitted food trucks and their trailers to operate on private property in the C-1 and C-2 zones, and with a special permit in any zone during a special event.
Commissioners agreed they would spend more time on the subject if council sent the subject back to them with further instructions.
Next meeting will be Tuesday, March 8. Prior to the meeting, there will be a Public Hearing beginning at 6 p.m. for an application for a CUP for a Bed & Breakfast at 6 Hazel Street and a waiver of the 200-ft. rule.