Winder favors an outright ban because, in part, he doesn't want to further burden West Valley code enforcers, he said. And the city should have the same high standards as places like Park City, which outlaws the carts unless they are connected to an established restaurant.

Many other cities around the valley grant only temporary licenses to mobile food stands and most don't allow them on public property. Some cities, such as Riverton, have no ordinance dealing with the carts.

"Health, safety and blight issues to me are not cultural issues they are quality of life issues," Winder said.

Cindy Allred manages Tastee's Cafe and Mobile in West Valley City, which houses about 15 taco carts each night.

"I think as long as it's not causing any public nuisance, people have a right to come into America and open a business," she said. "I don't really see what it hurts. It's a small business like any other."

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E-mail: rpalmer@desnews.com