Hollister considers an ordinance to allow food truck operations throughout the city

The ordinance is still under Hollister City Council review, but if approved, it could go into effect on July 20.

The ordinance is still under Hollister City Council review, but if approved, it could go into effect on July 20.

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The ordinance is still under Hollister City Council review, but if approved, it could go into effect on July 20.

The City of Hollister is considering a new ordinance that would allow food trucks to operate throughout the city.

The city said the consideration of the ordinance was prompted by community interest in having more food options available.

"There is a desire [for food trucks] to be in more areas of the city. Right now, [food trucks are] limited to the industrial area in the northern end of town, so that doesn't provide easy access to the residents," said Dave Mirrione, Hollister Interim City Manager.

Food truck operators favor the new ordinance because they believe it would attract more customers.

"Our customers need to know that they can count on us. That has been our biggest struggle: where can we operate and how can we operate?" said Joseph Elmhorst, owner of the Steak Stop food truck.

The current draft of the ordinance would allow food trucks to operate with certain limitations. There are three different permit types: a short-term permit would require trucks to move to a new location every hour, a long-term permit would allow trucks to stay at a designated location for up to four hours, and a third permit type would be for private events.

"I just want other small businesses like mine to be recognized and get the exposure they deserve," said Elmhorst.

Some restaurants in the area expressed concerns that they haven't been included in the decision-making process and hope the city council will reconsider the plan.

"Brick-and-mortar establishments have a little more to lose once this is expanded. The reason for that is the overhead cost," said Raul Escareno, owner of The Baler Steak House.

However, food truck operators argue there is enough room for everyone in Hollister. On the other hand, restaurants claim that the playing field is unfair and worry that food trucks could reduce their dine-in customers and harm their business.

"If you have a bunch of food trucks parked downtown, they are essentially profiting off the atmosphere we bring downtown," said Escareno.

The Hollister City Council will discuss the ordinance in two additional meetings, the first on June 5 and the second on June 20. The public is encouraged to comment on the matter before it goes to a city council vote.