Concerns Over New Licensing and Permit Updates to Marshfield City Codes Regarding Food Truck Vendors

Monday, June 24th, 2024 -- 11:00 AM

(Sabrina Lee, WAOW) -It was on Monday where food truck vendors in Marshfield were informed of licensing and permit updates to city codes.

According to Sabrina Lee with WAOW, these changes would bar food trucks from operating on city property outside of city sanctioned events. "It meant that we could only set up on private property with written approval from the owner, so that brought up a lot of questions for everything we do," said Jay Harwood, Owner of Razor J's Old Fashioned Kettle Corn. Vendors were suddenly concerned for their future.

"Stressful, I'd say is the biggest understatement like, what are we going to do if we can't be at the parks? How are we gonna pay our bills? How am I going to feed my family? Not only that, but the community, if the community can't have us there, how are we gonna bring it together?" said Katrina Kroeplin, Owner of Kat's Sweet Escape.

Thursday, owners spoke publicly in front of city officials to state their piece, explaining why food trucks are so important. "We enjoy cooking, but we also like to be around people; so it gets us out there it, gives us a chance to see people face-to-face and, if they love our product, they let us know, and they're always pretty happy to see us," said Harwood.

It worked. City officials said the community support has played a role in reversing the decision, allowing food vendors to be on city property like parks and public areas, provided they have the right licensing, for non-city events like weddings, graduation parties, and others. It will be discussed at Tuesday’s council meeting.

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