Motion Calls for Proposals to Boost Restaurant Businesses

Los Angeles City Councilman Richard Alarcón introduced a motion that would make it easier for restaurants to operate in the city, especially as they compete with mobile food trucks. The motion introduced Aug. 17 calls for a comprehensive review and report to be completed for the Jobs & Business Development Committee within 30 days. Alarcon is chair of the committee. The report is to include proposals for decreasing the business tax rate for restaurants, creating a “Dine LA” campaign and allowing restaurants to open sidewalk cafes. It is also set to include the number of jobs that would be created if these proposals were implemented. “The City has focused on ways to punish the mobile food truck industry, however, we must utilize this moment to also review our policies and find new ways to help ensure that restaurants of all kind – ‘brick and mortar’ and mobile – can be successful and profitable in our city,” Alarcón said. The motion instructed city staff to collaborate with the California Restaurant Association, neighborhood councils and the business community in creating the report. Jessica Selva