The Solvang City Council on Monday approved a five-year renewal of the Solvang Trolley, preserving the beloved attraction that residents consider “classically Solvang.”

The council approved the license renewal for Horzes Entertainment LLC, commonly referred to as the Solvang Trolley, including an encroachment permit for the trolley’s parking spaces. Additionally, the council required the trolley to notify affected residents anytime it uses an alternate route for a special event.

At the meeting, owner Salvatore Orona noted the company’s perfect safety record, reporting no accidents or complaints within 19 years of operation.

Mayor David Brown and council members spoke highly of the attraction. Brown called it an “iconic business” of the city.

“We treasure it, and I think we want to see it extended,” he said.

Solvang resident Maisie Curtis mentioned “murmurs” around town worrying about horses working on “long and hot days,” but said in her experience that she was taught that “it makes (horses) happy” to pull things.

The business’ rules specifically state that the horse-drawn trolley doesn’t operate on days projected to be hotter than 90 degrees.

Several staff members spoke during public comment to support the license renewal and assure council members that the horses are well taken care of.

“Every day [the horses] are happy to work, because when you put the collars on they’re ready to go,” said Ann Smith, a ranch worker for the Solvang Trolley. “If there’s anything —if anything’s going on in town — [Salvatore Orona] will not risk the horses. He takes the best care of them.”

Solvang residents also spoke in support of the trolley, citing it as a key part of Solvang’s identity.

“After all these years, the horse-drawn trolley has become an integral part of this town’s identity, and renewing their license to operate is a necessity in keeping the spirit of the Danish capital of America alive,” resident Finn Curtis said.

Councilwoman Elizabeth Orona also shared appreciation for the trolley.

“I want to tell you that I appreciate seeing the trolleys, especially the horse-drawn trolleys,” she said. “You guys do your best to make it special. [We] really appreciate it.”

The council approved the license renewal in a 4-0-1 vote. Councilwoman Claudia Orona recused herself because of her involvement with the business.