The Town Council has adopted a new kitchen policy for the Community Center, one that according to officials will make eating meals at the center safer as well as reduce town liability regarding catering operations.

Community Services Director Mark Mayer said the town needed better control over who serves and prepares food that is dished out during center events.

Mayer said the town consulted with Maricopa County Environmental Health in developing the new policy.

The Community Center kitchen is now designated as a “service kitchen,” where those catering events may heat or cool, but not cook, food that was prepared off site in a catering kitchen. They may also plate and serve the meals.

Caterers serving at the Community Center must have a catering license and insurance, and those serving must have a food handler’s certificate.