Council holds first reading and public hearing on ordinance to allow mobile food vending

Mayor Maureen Weathers opened a public hearing at 7:29 p.m. on Ordinance 314, which would amend the Lowell Development Code to add zoning regulations and standards for mobile food vending. City Administrator Max Baker presented the staff report and said a committee (including Mayor Weathers, Planning Commissioner Bill George, Kristen, and Brittany Hunt, who operates a mobile food vending business) reviewed other Lane County cities' standards and developed draft regulations. Baker said the Planning Commission recommended Council adoption.

Baker noted one administrative change after the Planning Commission recommendation: permits issued under the ordinance would expire on June 30 each year to align with the City's budget cycle. During public comment, Bob Burr asked whether food trucks could operate during the Blackberry Jam event; Baker clarified the Jam reserves the park and vendors would need to relocate or apply to be a booth and pay the regular fee. Councilor Jimmy Murray moved for first reading by title only; Councilor Gail Harris seconded and the motion passed unanimously. The Council scheduled a second reading by title only for Oct. 21, 2025; Baker said that if the ordinance is approved at second reading it would go into effect roughly 30 days later (about Nov. 21, 2025).