City of Austin Environmental Health Services Division Proposed City Code Changes Presented by: David Lopez, Chief Environmental Health Officer Vince Delisi, Assistant Division Manager August 18, 2015
Goals and objectives: Austin/Travis County HHSD, Environmental Health Services Division operates programs designed to promote and protect the public health. Minimizing the public’s exposure to health and environmental hazards through community outreach, education and regulatory enforcement.
Today’s Purpose: To introduce several proposed changes to the City of Austin’s Code of Ordinances related to food safety and enforcement procedures. To explain the reason and purpose of these changes and answer questions from stakeholders. To obtain feedback from various stakeholders regarding these changes.
Proposed Changes: Administrative Enforcement Process - An Amendment to Chapter 2-13 to include the Health and Human Services Department for an administrative process creating offenses and establishment of hearings and penalties. Removes these enforcement cases from the Municipal Court Criminal system. Independent Hearing Officer for appeals. Reduces the amount of time between violations and compliance actions. Criminal Court reserved for more critical and repeated violations.
Proposed Changes: Food Handler Registrations – Significant revisions to Ch regarding food handler registration based on the passage of SB 582. Food Handler registration no longer required Training still required. Enforcement protocols. “Volunteers” removed from the definition. Food Manager Requirements – Revision to Ch to require a certified food manager to be on duty at all hours of operation for food enterprises in the city. Increases food safety oversight in all establishments. Allows trained personnel to oversee volunteers handling food. Best public health practice consistent with other jurisdictions
Proposed Changes: Central Preparation Facilities Registration Process – Revisions and additions to Ch to include a new process and fee for the registration of mobile vending central preparation facilities. Administrative fee for registration. Must meet minimum requirements. Mobile Vending – Minor additions to Ch adding water and wastewater tank sizing requirements. Number one reason for the suspension of MV permits. Critical food safety and environmental issue. 30 gallon minimum potable water tank for Unrestricted Units. 10 gallon minimum for push carts.
Contact Us: Environmental Health Services Division PO Box Austin TX or call David B. Lopez, Chief EHO Vincent Delisi, ADM
Questions?