Should the municipality allow food trucks on State Street?

At the Newtown Borough Council work session Tuesday night, business owners focused on a proposal to change the city’s food truck ordinance.

The proposed changes to county ordinances would allow food trucks to operate in front of local businesses.

Currently, it is illegal to operate food trucks in Newtown, whether on company or private property.

The amendment under discussion would allow businesses to apply to local government for a permit to set up a food truck on their property. There are also provisions regarding noise and hours of operation, and all food trucks would have to be inspected by the county and municipal health departments.

The proposal has sparked considerable debate among both business owners and residents.

Some business owners believed the ordinance would allow food trucks to obtain a permit and open daily to offer food.

Earlier this year, Second Sin Brewing Company expressed interest in setting up a food truck on municipal property on State Street, prompting the City Council to reconsider existing rules.

Jackie McGonigal, owner of the Newtown Ice House, opposed the proposed ordinance.

McGonigal raised concerns that food trucks could potentially detract from the district’s historic ambience and questioned how food truck operators would comply with regulations, including the district’s ban on single-use plastics and disposal of used cooking oils.

A representative from State Street Kitchen said approval of the ordinance could lead to unfair competitive advantages for food trucks over traditional restaurants. The woman also raised concerns about potential congestion and garbage problems.

“The district used to be more business-friendly,” the representative said.

Mark Gatta, co-owner of Opus Elite Real Estate on State Street, also spoke out against the proposed ordinance.

The broker feared that an influx of food trucks could change the character of State Street.

“It doesn’t make sense to allow food trucks on State Street. I feel like we’re taking a step backwards,” Gatta said.

The businessman noted that he is OK with occasional food trucks in front of businesses, but criticized a permanent setup. He said an ordinance change could allow him to charge rent for a food truck in front of his State Street office.

David Witchell, owner of a salon and spa on State Street, also raised concerns about pedestrian safety, the smell of trucks and enforcement of county ordinances.

In June, Don Hayden, co-chair of the Walk Friendly Newtown committee, expressed concern about potential congestion and pedestrian safety risks if food trucks were allowed on public streets.

After listening to public opinion, Council President Heinz acknowledged the seriousness of the concerns and assured that all factors would be taken into account when considering changes.

Council member Josh Phillips said he understood the concerns raised at the meeting.

Council member Julia Woldorf said she believes the ordinance change should only apply to special events and private property, not regular days on public property, citing the size of county roads and the impact on traffic.

Towards the end of the meeting, Heinz said she thought it might be best not to allow food trucks on public streets.

The Council is expected to take up the issue again in future meetings.