Council approves food truck ordinance, finalizes event center name

The final city council meeting held April 21, saw significant developments for Hartselle’s food scene and community spaces, with the adoption of a new food truck ordinance and updates on the city’s farmers market and upcoming event center. 

Food trucks took center stage as the council passed Ordinance 1630, officially paving the way for potential food truck parks in the city. These parks, which could become permanent fixtures similar to brick-and-mortar businesses, will require customer parking, as well as centralized water and electrical hookups. However, council members agreed to amend the ordinance, removing the requirement for each individual truck station to have hookups if the vehicle is self-contained. 

“This opens the door for more food options and small business opportunities in Hartselle,” Mayor Randy Garrison said.  

In another highlight from the meeting, the council unanimously confirmed the name for the city’s new event venue: Hartselle Events Center. The facility will be attached to the new library currently under construction. Council member Dwight Tankersley drew a few laughs, commenting, “That’s what it’s going to get called even if we name it something else.” 

The city’s farmers market is also getting a facelift. Garrison reported that while the market is set to open on May 1, improvements are ongoing. Paved areas around the market have been completed, and sidewalk upgrades are scheduled to follow later this spring.  

In other business, the council approved several rezoning ordinances. One involved property on Highway 36 near Ironman Road, clearing the way for an automotive garage. Another approved rezoning for the development of duplexes near Dollar General and Main St. West. 

A property at 324 Simpson St. was brought before the council on appeal after being deemed an unsafe dwelling. City officials stated they’ve been working with the owners since January, citing structural concerns and the presence of a camper occupant on the property. While the camper issue has been partially resolved, structural problems remain. With no representative of the property present at the meeting, the council voted to condemn the structure. 

The next council meeting is scheduled for May 6 at 7 p.m.