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Commission approves Chick‑fil‑A mobile vendor at Pier Marquette after debate over local vendor preference
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Summary
After extended discussion about local business preference, food safety, wind and waste issues, the commission approved a concession agreement allowing a locally franchised Chick‑fil‑A mobile truck to operate at Pier Marquette, while several commissioners asked staff to consider future policy incentives for smaller local vendors.
City parks staff presented a concession application from Chick‑fil‑A to operate a frequent mobile food vendor at Pier Marquette. Kyle Grzewski, director of parks and recreation, said the applicant proposed a truck at the MacKite building location with prep done off‑site and regular weekend presence. The applicant's representative, Cameron Bufner, said the operation would follow strict food‑safety protocols and supply fresh product repeatedly throughout the day.
Commissioners debated whether to favor local, smaller vendors over a national franchise, and raised concerns about wind and sand at the beach, trash management and the vendor's frequency on busy summer weekends. Commissioner Kilgo said he wanted to consult more with constituents about whether a large franchise should be a consistent presence; Commissioner Cochin raised food‑safety and sand‑ingress concerns, which the applicant addressed with packaging and window controls. Policy staff reminded the commission that business size is not a factor in the current concession application process.
After questions and discussion, a motion to authorize staff to enter into a concession agreement with the applicant passed by roll call. Commissioners said staff should use future development of vendor policy (for food trucks and ch'alets) to consider reserving space or preference for local entrepreneurs.
The concession approval does not preclude other vendors at Pier Marquette and staff said the city will continue to recruit local vendors and may incorporate local preference in future policy changes.
