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The owners of mobile food vending vehicles (food trucks) in Hialeah will have to comply with new regulations if they wish to continue operating.
On Tuesday, the City Council decided that these popular businesses will have to adhere to operational standards.
These business ventures, in which many Cuban migrants have managed to succeed, have also been accused of unfair competition by other merchants.
With the new ordinance, the aim is to ensure safety and compliance with state regulations, explained Claudia Hasbun, Assistant Director of Planning for Hialeah, to Telemundo 51.
"The regulations will prevent food trucks from operating in dangerous locations, such as gas stations, without appropriate conditions. Moreover, standards will be established to avoid traffic congestion and will require businesses to have insurance and proper permits," Hasbun specified.
The authorities state that the goal is not to restrict the business, but to regulate its operation and align it with the requirements that traditional restaurants must meet.
The difference in requirements is a frequent complaint among restaurant owners, who face greater legal and financial obligations.
"We pay for insurance, workers' compensation, taxes, and now new regulations for grease traps and other costs. We are not against food trucks, but they must operate in specific areas and under fair rules for everyone," stated Miguel Peña of the restaurant La Bodeguita.
Others believe it is right to regulate this type of business to avoid issues related to health, traffic, and noise.
In February of last year, Mayor Esteban Bovo Jr. spoke about the need for new regulations to control where food trucks park and protect the safety of residents.
"It is not about restricting them or not allowing them, but rather creating specific areas," he declared to America TeVe.
At that moment, it was proposed that trucks be located only in specific areas, more than ten feet away from buildings or any structures, and that their presence be prohibited within 500 feet of food stores and gas stations, which affects many food trucks situated at service stations.
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Regulations for Food Trucks in Hialeah
What are the new regulations for food trucks in Hialeah?
The new regulations established by the Hialeah City Council require food trucks to comply with operational standards, which include a ban on operating in hazardous locations such as gas stations, adherence to traffic regulations, and the obligation to maintain valid insurance and permits. These measures aim to ensure safety and compliance with state regulations.
How will these regulations affect food truck owners in Hialeah?
The regulations will impact food truck owners by requiring them to adhere to stricter standards, similar to those of traditional restaurants. This could increase their operating costs due to the need to meet additional requirements such as insurance and permits. The goal is to streamline their operations and align them with the demands of traditional restaurants.
Why were these regulations for food trucks implemented in Hialeah?
The regulations were implemented to ensure the safety of citizens and compliance with state regulations. Additionally, they aim to prevent unfair competition with traditional restaurants, which have to meet more legal and financial obligations. Authorities assert that the goal is not to restrict business but to regulate its operation.
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