Four changes to the town zoning code were approved by the Town Council last week on the recommendation of the Planning Board.
The changes to town ordinances will allow food trucks downtown, protect wetlands, change minimum parking requirements, and allow the Planning Board to waive minor site plan reviews under certain circumstances.
Council Vice Chair Melissa Costella opposed approving the food trucks ordinance, but the other ordinances passed unanimously at the Oct. 28 council meeting..
“Long story short, I like the idea (of food trucks),” Costella said, but voiced concerns that the changes should first be workshopped by the council to iron out details. “I’m not confident with the ordinance changes. I think it needs a little work.”
In particular, she asked about rules concerning permits, fees, lighting, locations and alcohol sales, among other things.
DeCarlo Brown, town planning and economic development director, said that truck operators would be required to fill out an application and get annual approvals. The application could include whatever requirements and questions the council suggests, Brown said.
“Any information you want to have about that food truck, you just tell us,” said Brown, noting planners would put together the application. “And if you want more information, you don’t have to approve that application. You can ask for more information.”
