Rush Valley approves home-business permits for meth decontamination specialist and ice-cream operator

The Rush Valley Planning & Zoning Commission approved two conditional home-business permits on March 4: one for Jeff Hardy, a state-certified methamphetamine decontamination specialist, and another for Andrea Stidman, who plans to operate an ice-cream truck from a converted vehicle based in Rush Valley.

Jeff Hardy told the commission his work consists primarily of testing and decontamination at third-party properties. He said he swabs walls, ceilings and floors and sends samples to a laboratory; if results exceed 1 microgram per 100 square centimeters, decontamination proceeds with coordination with the health department. Hardy described storing minimal analytical-grade methanol — he estimated "single digit ounces" — and using a water-based detergent (sodium triphosphate/TSP) in the decontamination process. Commissioners emphasized there would be no commercial traffic to the applicant’s home and noted that the conditional use permit is separate from the municipal business-license process and fee.

Andrea Stidman described operating an ice-cream truck converted from a hearse and said she will sell only prepackaged foods. She told commissioners she had contacted the health department, which told her prepackaged sales would not require ongoing monitoring; she intends to obtain a business license and any required identifying number (EIN) for licensing in Rush Valley and in any other jurisdiction where she sells.

Commission members moved and seconded motions to approve each conditional use permit; both motions passed. Staff clarified permit fees ($50 for the conditional-use permit and $30 for the business license) and explained staff will issue the town business license once payment is received.