Pea Ridge — a proposed entertainment district north of Slack Street between Carr Street and North Curtis Avenue — has been approved by the city’s plans after hearing from a number of local business owners at a Sept. 6 hearing. rejected by the committee.
City attorney Shane Perry left the room at both the hearing and the discussion under the new business because of a conflict of interest. We are building a cafe that will serve food and alcohol.
The proposed ordinance would allow anyone with a city-approved wristband and cup, sold by an approved business, to roam a defined area with alcohol. It was likened to Rogers’ railroad depot.
Several food truck managers in the area spoke out, most of them against the district.
“What about security?” asked Roger Waterloo. “I don’t know what people do when they’re drunk. Who’s to blame if something happens to the trailer?”
He also expressed concerns about garbage, parking lots, seats, and restrooms.
“Our customers come and go freely. They want to park near our trailers.”
He and other food truck employees, none of whom had restrooms, walked to both McDonald’s and Sonic just east of it to use the facilities.
Tammy Pearson of Grateful Griddle said: But without a plan, I don’t think I’m ready to vote tonight. ”
Chair Al Fowler explained that there is a process by which the Planning Commission can submit, approve or reject requests. If approved, it will be sent to the City Council for consideration.
Rigoberto Mendoza said, “I own a piece of land with food trucks, and I own and rent out some of them. It’s nice to discuss, but from my point of view, the city has I think we need an entertainment district,” he said. “It helps the city develop and provides additional places to hang out.
“In terms of infrastructure, there are plans to continue developing the property, including adding permanent toilets and bringing in temporary porta toilets…in addition to a small pavilion…those items are my plans.” included in.”
“I’m personally against this because of the simple fact that one business makes a profit and the taxpayer pays for security, wristbands, garbage, etc. Tony, City Hall employee. Townsend said: “The costs will outweigh the benefits for the city.”
The cost of the cups and wristbands “doesn’t come out of the city’s pocket,” said Nathan Shih, director of the street division.
Planning Commission member Carolyn Wendell said, “If residents don’t want this, I don’t see the point.
Dr. Karen Sherman, a member of the planning committee, agreed and motioned, “I think we should decline to establish at this point.”
The five planning committee members present voted unanimously to decline.