Discussions Ongoing about Emergency Legislation To Put a Moratorium on Food Trucks

Photo by PoPville flickr user Mr. T in DC

Back in August we learned that there were some forces who were opposed to the emergence of the DC food truck scene. It looks like even more forces are at work and gaining momentum. And now I’m hearing the emerging food truck scene could be in big big trouble.

From a number sources I’ve been hearing that emergency legislation is being discussed to put a moratorium on food trucks. I spoke to Ward 4 Council Member Muriel Bowser who confirmed that this is a possibility. She also said she opposed the idea of a moratorium. Though she did say in an email that the sales tax situation did need to be worked out. The reason why a moratorium could be a problem, beyond the obvious, is that it is very difficult to overturn. If we are looking for a compromise, perhaps, putting a cap on the number of trucks could be a much smarter move than putting a blanket moratorium on them. Currently there are around 20 food trucks with a few more in the works. If a cap were placed on the number of food trucks in DC what do you think would be a fair number (if any)?

If you don’t want to see a moratorium on food trucks be sure to let your council members know – they can be contacted here. If you live in Ward 4 – Council Member Bowser already opposes the moratorium so be sure to let your at large members know how you feel.