It’s somewhat of a controversial move on the part of Myrtle Beach officials, but a new motion was passed recently that will allow food trucks to do more than sell food. The pilot program will grant food truck permits in Futrell Park, Bathsheba Bowens Memorial Park, Savannah’s Playground, Wither’s Swash Park, and Myrtle Market — on the grounds that the food truck owners will help keep the parks clean and help the Myrtle Beach Police Department surveil the premises when necessary.
Vendors are solely responsible for refuse from their own trucks, including garbage carried and spread to other parts of the park by messy customers. Vendors will also be tasked with reporting potential maintenance issues.
In addition, vendors who are granted licenses will be forced to display a sign promoting their cooperation with the city police department, which will be notified when suspicious behavior is detected on the premises of any of these parks.
The idea behind the new policies goes beyond simple cleanliness and adequate policing of the neighborhood. The motion was drafted as a way to promote the use of parks that aren’t routinely frequented by the public.
City Spokesperson Mark Kruea said, “Some of these parks aren’t very busy, but they are great spaces. Having more activity in the parks will enliven not only the parks themselves, but the neighborhoods they serve.” And let’s face it — the move will also serve as an easy stimulus for the economy of Myrtle Beach.
The food truck vendors will have to abide by a set schedule coordinated by Trojan Cow, LLC. The schedules will remain in place during operating months from March to October from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. early in the day and then 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the evening. Vendors must remain on the schedule at least two days a week to remain qualified for the program.
The food truck owners don’t seem to mind. The Trojan Cow owner Drew Basilicato said, “It’s more of a proactive approach versus reactive. If there’s a lot of people out here having a cookout or just enjoying the parks and getting some food, there’s less likely to be a scenario where something illegal might take place.”
This motion was passed before Hurricane Dorian moved through the area. For those affected by the natural disaster, the Lowcountry Food Bank will be hosting an event to distribute food to those in need.
