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COMMENT:
Help me understand the pros and cons first
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I would like to offer that it would be helpful if you provide the pros and cons of the issue and then ask my opinion.
Without balanced information to understand impacts/benefits, it is very difficult to weigh in.
For instance, what are possible benefits to neighborhoods, vendors, restaurants, tax base, city image? What are drawbacks--is there likely to be increased noise, trash, traffic congestion, restaurant closures? What have been the experiences of other similar ciites?
You could provide a SWOT analysis of the issue, or provide an examination of the core issues as the League of Women Voters does with ballot questions.
In other words, I want help in understanding the issue first so that I can make an informed judgment before I offer my opinions.
Date Submitted: 7/21/2015 1:36 pm
RE: Help me understand the pros and cons first
Look to Boston for inspiration- trucks such as Roxy's and Mei Mei have opened brick and mortar establishments after a successful run as food truck operators.
http://www.cityofboston.gov/foodtrucks/schedule-tabs.asp
In most cities, food trucks are heavily regulated and inspected, just like restaurants. Operators must be current on food safety and sanitation licensing, must prepare all foods in a licensed kitchen (either a time sharing commercial kitchen or in conjunction with a professional kitchen.
The problem with Worcester's last ordinance is that it was created to kill off any food trucks- hence the 5 minute rule, and the 500 foot buffer zone from any other establishment serving food. That gave places like 7-11 and corner stores the right to shut down a truck that could make something delicious, instead of fast food. Right now the only places you see a food truck are in deserted areas of Worcester, far away from any foot traffic (with the exception of the Dive Bar- the owner welcomes food trucks).
I see no down side to food trucks in Worcester- we live in New England- long winters, wet springs, hot summers. The brick and mortar places will do fine even with the inclusion of food trucks. If they can't compete with a food truck, there are probably a host of other compelling reasons for their lack of patronage.
Date Submitted: 7/21/2015 2:09 pm
RE: Help me understand the pros and cons first
"balanced information to understand impacts/benefits, it is very difficult to weigh in."
This is what was needed before a ordinance was put in place.Now what is needed is just common sense - something is wrong if other cities see benefit but this City puts in restrictive ordinance first.
Date Submitted: 7/24/2015 2:30 pm
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