A lengthy discussion was held about food courts at the Bradley County Chamber of Commerce’s monthly board meeting Monday at Bradley County Economic Development Corp.
Board members pointed to the success of other food courts in the area, including Monticello’s Food Court Friday and the recent Farmer’s Market Trade Days held at the Bradley County Fairgrounds. Several food trucks have come to Warren at various times.
Executive Director Terrie White pointed out the only requirements for a food truck are sewer, water and power services. They must purchase a city privilege license and pay local and state sales taxes.
White said the pending removal of the Bryant’s Building may allow space for food trucks at that location. If a food truck is located on private property, they would have to pay for a lease with the property owner.
“Food trucks are going to be the future for small towns,” said board Chairman Ron St. John.
“Our restaurants are struggling,” said board member JeNelle Lipton.
Attending the meeting were board members St. John, Lipton, James Wells, Mary Julia Moore, Estephany Roman, Brooke Hatch, Dana Harvey, Kim Forrest, Maribeth Frazer, Ana Angeles and board Treasurer Jane Harris. Jim Houston and Charlotte Tenner-Brown also attended.
In other action:
- St. John reported several donations have come in for the Easter event set for 10 a.m. April 1 at Warren City Park. Among the events will be a bouncy house, hot dogs served by state Rep. Jeff Wardlaw, face painting and three age groups of Easter egg hunts. Arkansas State Employees Association Chapter at Southeast Arkansas Human Development Center will also make a contribution.
- Market On Main will return at 10 a.m. April 15 to the Martin’s lot. The event will be advertised on a marquee sign on the lot, Facebook and Chamber pages, and in local media, including Saline River Chronicle.
- Lipton reported the bylaws committee had met and completely revised the bylaws, which will be presented at the April 10 meeting. A motion was approved to change the board president’s title to board chairman and differentiate the job duties between that and the executive director.
- Two ribbon-cuttings will be sponsored by the Chamber. Behavioral Science Services will have a grand opening at 11 a.m. Thursday and Mainline Health Services will commemorate its remodeling at 2 p.m. Friday.