Forest Parkers may hear the sweet sound of ice cream truck music more often next summer.
At the Nov. 10 village council meeting, commissioners unanimously approved an ordinance allowing up to four ice cream vending vehicles to get annual licenses to sell their treats in Forest Park.
Village Administrator Rachell Entler told the Review that the ordinance was requested by Max Barajas, owner of Nadeau’s Ice Sculptures, who launched Cool Truck Treats last year but was unable to operate in Forest Park.
Though commissioners approved issuing licenses for ice cream trucks, they amended the ordinance to allow operations until 8 p.m. or sunset, whichever’s earlier, rather than the originally proposed 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. window.
“We do get really nice, warm days in the fall and in the spring. With those days being a little darker earlier, I was a little concerned about safety there,” said Commissioner Jessica Voogd, who moved to amend hours of operations.
“It’s one of those things where, do we just let it rip and adjust as necessary and see how it goes?” Commissioner Ryan Nero responded to the suggestion to amend operating hours. “But I get it from a safety standpoint, if it is darker and you have kids running out in the street.”
Per the new ordinance, vending vehicles must have a reflective sign on the front and back that says “caution – children crossing” and a fold-out reflective sign that says “slow.” Vending is also not allowed within 100 feet of an intersection, and not at all on Roosevelt, Harlem, Des Plaines, Madison, Randolph or Washington.
Voogd also asked why the proposed number of available ice cream truck licenses was four. Entler answered that she discussed the number with Village Attorney Nick Peppers.
“It really just comes down to what the staff or the council wants. We picked four to start with. Certainly, if there is strong sentiment from the council to make it smaller to start, we can.”
None of the commissioners said they have strong feelings about the number of available ice cream truck licenses.
“Who doesn’t like ice cream?” Nero said.
The annual fee for an ice cream truck license is $50, plus another $50 for a background check. Those who wish to obtain one must go to the village’s clerk’s office in-person with a valid driver’s license, license plate number and vehicle identification number of the ice cream vending vehicle, plus a copy of a current Health Department permit.
