The Rochester City Council meeting had a full house Tuesday evening, as citizens voiced their ideas about events for downtown that could potentially enhance the community cohesion. 

Group members from the 2022-2023 Fulton County Leadership Academy made a request for the council to reconsider the current city ordinance 119.2, banning vendors and food trucks from city property. 

Inspired by surrounding towns hosting 'First Friday' events, the group presented the concept of a monthly event downtown, for a future project that could benefit the community by enticing outside visitors to explore what Rochester has to offer. 

The idea sparked a nearly 45 minute discussion between both community members and the council. Mayor Ted Denton said lifting the ordinance would be risky for downtown restaurants, who would be competing for food sales with outside vendors. 

Council member Ruth Gunter disagreed with a monthly event hurting downtown business. 

Gunter, who also owns Ruthless Bar & Patio and Evergreen Eatery, said attracting the event could potentially benefit the downtown businesses even more in the long run. 

Although not yet approved, the council agreed to table the decision until the Leadership Academy group can come back with more feedback from local business owners, and a detailed plan on location, times and funding that may be involved.