Alexander council approves food trailer and Planning Studies Report

The Alexander City Council approved a recommendation from the city’s planning commission to allow a conditional use permit for the operation of a food trailer on property zoned residential. The council also approved the final version of the Planning Studies Report, which will be used as a starting point for the writing of a master development plan.

A public hearing was held by the planning commission Tuesday, May 4 to receive input from residents. Planning commission Chairman Michael Huck told council members no one attended the hearing either “For” or “Against” the permit request. The location of the property is at 15404 South Alexander Road; at the corner of Alton Dr. and S. Alexander Road.

The request was made by Jose Perez Arreola, who lives with his wife Melissa in their home next to the property. Arreola will be offering a Mexican cuisine, known as “Street Food.” The name of his business is Antojitos Querétaro, which translates to Cravings Querétaro.

Council Member Harold Timmerman expressed concern over setting a precedent allowing a food trailer on residential property. Timmerman believes someone later, who also wants to sell food on property zoned residential, may expect to be approved and complain if not because it was allowed in this case.

Council Member and Planning Commission Member Juanita Wilson explained to Timmerman that each request will be judged on its individual merits. She pointed out this location is not in the middle of a residential area.

To the north, across Alton Dr., is Hales Steel offices and manufacturing plant. Across S. Alexander Rd. is Pueblo Auto Repair. South of the auto repair is the city’s Central Fire Station. On the south side of the lot with the food trailer is the Arreola’s home. They also own the lot behind the house. The remaining area to the south and east is residential.

The final vote, taken as a voice vote, was five “Yes” and three “No.” Voting “Yes” were Joe Pollard, Joy Gray, Juanita Wilson, Dan Church, and Lonny Chapman. Harold Timmerman voted “No.” Elizabeth Bland and Jeff Watson were absent which count as “No” votes.

With this step out of the way the Arreolas may now apply for a privilege license (business license). That will include a health inspection and a safety inspection by the fire marshal.

Also at the May 17 meeting the council accepted the Planning Studies Report, which will now allow the planning commission to begin the second phase of writing a master development plan. The next phase is designed to get input from council members, city staff and the public in order to develop a street/transportation plan and a development plan to guide the city’s future growth.