Monday, August 27, 2012

Hot Dog Vendor Getting Leaned On?

I saw this story on Channel 8 last night and thought I'd write about it and get your feedback. Apparently, there's a guy who calls himself "Bronson From Wisconsin" who has set up a mobile hot dog stand in downtowwn La Crosse. I don't know if he sells anything but hot dogs, but the dogs they showed on the report sure looked good. Anyway, he's at the corner of 3rd and Main, and he's open until bar time to serve those who are out late at night. I don't know if he's out there during the day or not, maybe you can tell me if he is. The gist of the story is that it sounds like the City wants to consider new regulations for these type of mobile vendors, specifically in regards to their hours of operation. Although Bronson isn't the only mobile food vendor in town, the police are apparently concerned that Bronson's business keeps partiers downtown longer than they would like to see, possibly contributing to fights, etc. First off, I'm sure the guy has a restaurant license of some kind and follows all the health regulations like he's supposed to, so that's not an issue. The other point to consider is that there are plenty off other food establishments open at the time of night in traditional indoor settings, but nobody seems worried about that. Bronson says his business is giving people something to do after the bars close and they head out in their vehicles. I say he's found a great way to do business. Maybe it's me, but do you think he's getting "leaned on" a bit? What do you think? Should he (and anyone else who opens a mobile food cart) face more regulations than any other restaurant? Should he not be allowed to stay open as long as he likes? If any other restaurant doesn't serve alcohol, can't they stay open as late as they'd like to? I'd like to hear from you if you've ever had a dog from Bronson, or heard about any specific problems his being open has caused. Meantime, I'm going to see if he's open during the day and get a dog with the works! Email us your thoughts at johnandjacklyn@cc1063.com, or post your ideas on the CC Facebook page.