Gordo’s Food Truck

The Eau Claire City Council recently took a small step toward spreading food trucks across the community’s culinary menu. On Aug. 11, council members approved a new policy that will allow food trucks to operate in three city parks: Eau Claire Soccer Park, Phoenix Park, and Owen Park. Previously, food trucks could peddle their munchies on private property with the property owner’s permission. Under the new policy, food trucks can park in the parks, but must receive approval from both the city and the City-County Health Department; must obey hour and location limits within the parks; and are prohibited from operating an hour before or after scheduled events and games. During the meeting, city officials and City Council members acknowledged that food truck owners have asked to be allowed to operate on city streets. “This proposal is just dipping our toes into the food truck scene,” said Councilwoman Catherine Emmanuelle, adding that the council hopes by next spring to amend city ordinances to allow food trucks on streets. Until then, keep your plastic cutlery and wet wipes ready.