Sparta Green Market Asks City For Clarification On Food Trucks

The Sparta Green Market is asking Sparta officials for clarification on its established food truck ordinance.

The monthly farmer’s market attracts customers from across the state, but options for food for vendors is limited. Manager Amanda Dunsmore said the ordinance’s special event exemption should allow her to invite food trucks without city involvement.

“I’m actually looking more for clarification on that special event exemption,” Dunsmore said. “And that I would be allowed to manage who the food truck is that’s coming in. They do an application process. They go through me, and therefore, I kind of manage that under that exemption.”

Food trucks currently need a business license and permit to set up at the event. Dunsmore said she spoke to local restaurants near the Maple Street market and received support.

“I know as a vendor. If you have to be there from three o’clock to roughly 7:30, if you don’t pack a (…) sandwich you are going hungry,” Dunsmore said. “Cause there is not other food options. You can’t just run away from your table for an hour and get something to eat.”

Mayor Jeff Young said the city will review the comments and present more information during April’s meeting. The Board of Aldermen also approved revisiting its food truck ordinances to review fees for licenses.

Mayor Jeff Young said the current system is outdated and need to be competitive with other communities.