Ice cream trucks could soon be rolling onto Orillia streets.
At Monday’s council meeting, city politicians voted in favour of the idea, though the ice cream trucks will be subject to a number of restrictions, many of which aim to ensure their safety for children.
Some of these restrictions are as follows:
- Trucks must have ‘Watch for Children’ signs posted on the back of the vehicle;
- The top of the trucks must be fitted with two amber lights that flash while serving customers;
- Trucks must be fitted with a mirror system that allows the driver a 360-degree view around the vehicle while in the driver’s seat;
- Trucks will not be permitted to operate after sunset or before sunrise, on any arterial roads, within 15 metres of an intersection, or within 90 metres of a park or school to prevent large numbers of children running to the trucks at the same time;
- Products may not be provided to customers standing directly on the roadway; and other rules
Ice cream trucks will also have to abide by the city's existing regulations and fees for licensing “mobile catering trucks,” which includes an $861 fee, proof of $2 million general liability insurance, a completed criminal record check, written approval from the health unit and fire department, and more.
Council previously shot down the idea in 2021, citing safety concerns in their decision, but Coun. Jeff Czetwerzuk managed to win his peers’ support following an inquiry motion asking city staff to look into the feasibility of the trucks back in June.
Some members of council were wary of the idea, with Coun. Ralph Cipolla expressing safety concerns for children, and suggesting vulnerable sector checks for drivers should the trucks be permitted.
City staff, however, stated that an annual criminal record will be required.
Coun. Jay Fallis suggested an alternate plan where the trucks would be rolled out as an 18-month pilot project.
“I've talked a bit with fellow council members over the past week … and the one solution that we came up with was to start with a pilot project of about 18 months, and make it … that it would only allow the truck to operate in parks,” he said.
Ultimately, however, council voted in favour of allowing ice cream trucks to operate throughout the city.
“I simply think we need to let an ice cream truck be an ice cream truck and drive around and let people get ice cream. It makes them happy,” said Coun. Whitney Smith, who has fond memories of hearing the sound of an ice cream truck in her neighbourhood.
Council’s decision is subject to ratification at its next meeting on Aug. 14.
