Reporter Haley Ritchie’s piece in The Chief, “Food truck owner requests more flexibility in program” on Feb. 8, made me reflect on how the District’s decision to allow food trucks to reserve designated spots year-round is detrimental to the truck owners and their patrons.
Being a student, I know the appeal of having cheap, tasty food prepared fresh, just for you, as I frequent these trucks myself. I was bewildered to learn that truck owners pay hefty fees to reserve spots, and that only one truck is allowed per spot, as to me this is contrary to the free and open nature of food trucks, relative to traditional dining.
I understand that these are private businesses and should be regulated, but I cannot understand the limitation of one truck per space, especially given the diversity of these trucks (Greek, pizza, taco, burger, and ice cream to name a few).
Again, I can understand the concern of overcrowding a street or space, but I fail to see how allowing one or two additional trucks to a designated area could cause any major traffic hazards.
I’m glad to read in Ritchie’s piece that the District is already pursuing changes to bring a positive outcome to truck owners and those who enjoy their delicious products.
Ryan Grantham, Squamish
