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Elgin ends 45-year ban on ice cream trucks, carts

After 45 years of an ice cream ban that over the years was questioned by both residents and vendors, the Elgin City Council opened a new chapter with some laughter Wednesday.

“I just don't know how someone could vote against this nationwide phenomenon,” Councilman Toby Shaw said. “So I have to vote ‘yes' for it I guess. The biggest thing ...”

“ ... Since sliced bread,” Councilwoman Tish Powell chimed in, as her colleagues shared a laugh.

The unanimous vote was no surprise after a preliminary unanimous “yes” last month to amending city code to allow ice cream trucks and ice cream carts from April through October.

The change applies to the sale of ice cream and other frozen desserts, not food trucks, which in Elgin are allowed only at special events and on private property. The move comes after resident Jim Cremeens, an ice cream truck owner, approached city officials last summer asking for loosening of regulations.

The ordinance requires ice cream truck operators to be at least 18, pass a background check, and get a yearly permit after a safety inspection.

Police Chief Jeff Swoboda said background checks take about 10 days but occasionally the state portion can take up to 45 days.

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