AGENDA TITLE:
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Unpermitted Food Vendor Task Force Update (CD)
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MEETING DATE:
September 16, 2026
PREPARED BY:
Jonique Andrews, Senior Community Improvement Officer
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RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Receive a presentation regarding the City’s coordinated education and enforcement efforts related to unpermitted food vending.
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The City has established an interdepartmental task force to coordinate its response to unpermitted food vending. The task force includes representatives from Police, Fire, Community Development, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services, Economic Development, the City Manager’s Office, and other affected departments. The group has been meeting internally to review existing regulations, clarify departmental responsibilities, and develop a consistent approach that addresses public health and safety while providing vendors with clear information regarding applicable permit requirements.
With the assistance of the Public Information Officer, staff has prepared an educational pamphlet explaining the permits and licenses required to operate a food vending business within the City, potential enforcement consequences, and contact information for vendors seeking assistance. The pamphlet is available in both English and Spanish and is being distributed by Police Patrol Officers and Community Improvement staff during educational contacts and in response to complaints.
The City has also initiated discussions with the San Joaquin County Environmental Health Department regarding coordinated enforcement activities, including appropriate procedures for addressing unsafe food and other public health concerns. Community Improvement staff recently participated in two ride-alongs with the City of Elk Grove’s Code Enforcement Division to observe that agency’s education and enforcement practices.
Over the next two months, staff is conducting a public education campaign before transitioning to more focused enforcement. The education campaign includes public outreach and education through the English and Spanish pamphlets, a dedicated webpage on Lodi.gov, and a social media campaign conducted in collaboration between the City of Lodi and the Lodi Police Department.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Not applicable (update only)
FUNDING AVAILABLE:
Not applicable (update only)