Rockford food trucks face scrutiny as spring season approaches

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Warm weather is just around the corner, and for many restaurateurs in the Rockford area, that means the return of their food trucks.

“But, before any food truck can kick off a season of food and fun, they all have to start right here with an inspection from the Rockford Fire Department,” said Nathan Carden.

Carden began inspecting over a dozen food trucks on Thursday.

“There are between 50 and 64 in operation in the city of Rockford. Those numbers keep going up every year. So I anticipate those numbers to be higher this year,” he said.

Inspectors look for hazards in the truck, checking for things like carbon monoxide monitors, fire extinguishers, and fire hazards.

“It still is a mobile kitchen. There’s propane tanks. There’s carbon monoxide and things like that that we deal with that can have serious consequences on life,” Carden said.

One new food truck coming to Rockford this season is Willyums Dairi Fair. Owner Keith Williams said he’s wanted to expand the business, and a food truck is the perfect opportunity.

“You’re seeing, not just here in Rockford, but just about everywhere you go, you’re seeing you can be mobile and go to different locations. So, I think that’s what’s really sparked the popularity of it,” he said.

Williams passed inspection and said it would only be a matter of days before he’s up and running.

“Hopefully, we may be open either Saturday or Monday, depending on the weather,” he said.