City Councilwoman Carol Berz asked Tuesday how an ordinance promoting local use of food trucks got expanded so they also could become fixtures in outlying areas - not just downtown.
"The people in the burbs are up in arms about food trucks. The ordinance far exceeds the original intent," she said.
Ms. Berz said residents of Brainerd and elsewhere are concerned "that some wonk would put a hot dog stand in their parks."
Councilman Jerry Mitchell said, "We need to identify the zones where they are going before we pass a law."
Chairman Ken Smith moved to slow down the process on consideration of wider latitude for food trucks. He said it would not be considered for a vote until June 26.
There will be additional committee meetings prior to that time. One councilman said he wanted to hear directly from food truck operators on the issue.
Councilwoman Demetrus Coonrod said she had been in contact with several.
She said the council members could each decide what areas in their districts might be appropriate for setting up food trucks. She said for her district it may be Glass Street or Wilcox Boulevard.
Councilman Chip Henderson said he was still concerned that food trucks may put a dent in business of "brick and mortar" restaurants. He said he was told there is apparently no data on what the effect can be.
The measure as currently drafted would require food truck vendors to apply for permission to set up in an area of their choice. Neighbors would have a chance to object.