Running Southern Taiwan food truck, I've experienced firsthand the challenges made worse by monopolistic practices affecting the food truck industry. Initially, I was thankful for the waived permitting fees that helped many recover post-pandemic. After a lengthy closure, our truck resumed operations in October 2023. With significant dedication, we successfully gained approval for a second truck to enhance our services by April 16, 2025. However, we've recently been notified that our parking permit will be revoked after July 5, due to so-called "pre-existing claims" by another company.

The company currently holds 5 permits near The Spheres but operates only 2 trucks, leaving 3 prime spots vacant daily. This creates an artificial scarcity and extends lunch queues for Amazon employees in Seattle. According to the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), current regulations limit their ability to intervene, even though this situation contradicts legislative goals by wasting economic potential through unutilized parking spots, thus losing job opportunities and tax revenue.

This monopolistic behavior also deters new investments, as food truck businesses find their legally obtained permits revoked, hindering community diversity and vibrancy. The city must reform the permit allocation process to ensure fairness, transparency, and equality.

We urge local government and the SDOT to reassess and amend the current food truck permitting regulations. Enabling more equitable access and opportunity for all food truck operators would benefit the community economically and socially.

Seattle's rich and diverse food culture deserves better. Help us demand necessary changes to protect every operator's hard-earned rights and encourage a thriving urban food scene. Your support is essential. Sign this petition to request the local government to free up THREE unused food truck vendor spaces.