Food trucks on a roll

The first food truck to apply for the Village of Clearwater's food truck license set up shop on Main Street, Saturday, during the Harvest Merchant Market.

Reiman Coffee Company, of Verdigre, served hot and cold beverages, in addition to breakfast baked goods and lunch specials. Owner Diane Reiman said the application process was easy.

Village trustees approved an ordinance in August, after several months of discussion following a request from Debb Pofahl, co-owner of The Waterhole, to allow a food truck to set up near the bar, in June, during rodeo weekend.

Village attorney Kyle Peterson researched license requirements in other cities and villages and presented the application to trustees for approval.

Ordinance 2022-12 outlines requirements for a food vendor to set up shop. In the application, vendors must list owners' names, license plate number, a description of the vehicle and a description of food items available for sale; provide documentation of a license or permit to sell food, a copy of a State of Nebraska sales tax permit or proof of tax exemption, a copy of the vehicle registration and proof of insurance.

A minimum coverage of $1 million is required and the village will be listed as an additional insured.

Each vendor will provide a plan for disposal of grease, water and other waste.

A $10 application fee is required and vendors may apply to sell at a single event or establish a recurring license to operate.

Per the ordinance, food trucks will not be allowed to set up during Clearwater's Big Rodeo or the day before and after the event.