Turlock Considering Banning New Food Trucks In Downtown Area
TURLOCK (CBS13) — A food fight is brewing as the city of Turlock has considered banning food trucks in downtown.
The city's planning commission has voted to ban new food trucks in the six-block stretch of downtown in a battle between brick-and-mortar businesses and the trendy trucks.
Vida Vital owner Chris Shaun was approved to set up shop in the heart of downtown. The business owner says the battle has proved to be too costly and stressful.
"I wanted to bring a healthy alternative to the city of Turlock," he said. "I'm more than likely going to sell and do something else. I gave it a shot, and I got to keep it moving."
Opponents don't want mobile-food vendors parking in downtown for a number of reasons, one of which is keeping downtown true to its historic roots.
"Their vehicles are basically wraps with advertising that don't really lend to the historical design that we are trying to maintain and preserve," said Dana McGarry with the Turlock Downtown Property Owners Association.
Several mobile-food vendors, mostly taco trucks, operate in private lots. There are more than two-dozen food trucks citywide.
"Not everyone has the money to open up a restaurant," said taco truck owner Davis Zaniga.