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Council waives vendor fees for Fiesta on the Plaza; health and fire inspections retained
Summary
The council approved waiving vendor permit fees for the Stafford MSD‑cosponsored Fiesta on the Plaza (Sept. event) while keeping public‑safety inspections in place; debate focused on liability, medallions from other jurisdictions and oversight.
Stafford — The City Council on May 7 approved waiving vendor registration and permit fees for the Stafford Municipal School District co‑sponsored Fiesta on the Plaza event scheduled for Saturday in September, while city staff and the fire marshal confirmed that health and fire safety inspections will still be required.
The request came from Stafford MSD and event organizers seeking the same fee waivers the council granted last year. Organizers asked the council to waive mobile food vendor registration and temporary vendor permit fees to encourage vendor participation and community attendance.
Council discussion centered on public‑safety oversight and liability. Marcia (Health and Code officer) reminded the council that the City of Stafford follows the Texas Food Establishment Rules and that the rules require an inspection in support of any operating permit. She noted potential differences in inspection protocols among jurisdictions and said staff must ensure accountability for food sourcing, manager certification and equipment configuration.
The fire chief explained the fire marshal’s office inspects mobile food units for compliance with fire code and performs re‑inspections as needed; the chief and other staff said they would perform on‑site inspections for the September event. The council clarified the fee waiver is limited to the permit fee and does not waive required safety inspections.
Event organizers emphasized the economic benefit and community turnout at last year’s event and noted that several vendors that participated had quickly sold out their inventory. Council approved the fee waiver motion after debate; the meeting record reflects the motion passed and staff will continue to perform required safety reviews.
Council members asked staff to ensure vendors with valid medallions or permits from other Texas jurisdictions present current documentation; staff said existing medallions from other jurisdictions were accepted last year as proof of inspection, but that staff still performs on‑site checks for setup and equipment consistency.
