04-10-25 - Council Special Work Session Agenda Packet

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CITY COUNCIL / CHARTER COMMISSION MEETING STAFF REPORT STAFF ORIGINATOR: Roberta Colotti, CIVIC, City Clerk MEETING DATE: April 10, 2025 TOPIC: Zoning Regulations: Minium Distances Between Businesses INTRODUCTION At the January 9, 2025 Charter Commission meeting the Commission discussed the matter of similar types of businesses locating within a short distance of each other. There was debate and discussion on the value in establishing zoning regulations requiring a certain distance between businesses of the same type. This item was continued to the April 10th Joint Meeting for discussion with the City Council. BACKGROUND Attached is a memo from the City Attorney regarding zoning regulations governing minimum distances between businesses of the same type. Excerpt from 01-09-25 Charter Commission Draft Minutes Zoning Regulations: Minimum Distance Between Businesses Is there any way of limiting the distance of similar businesses within one area Chair Dahl asked if there is a way to limit similar businesses within one area. The City Clerk stated that a memorandum was prepared by the Community Development Director on this topic and was included in the packet. It was noted that further legal review would be required to fully answer this question. Chair Dahl stated that there is an existing tire shop and now a new one will be opening soon across the street, which she did not see as competition but an issue that would cause one business to go out of business. She asked if something could be put in ordinance to ensure a distance between similar types of businesses. Commissioner Damiani used the example of gas stations, banks, and liquor stores that commonly choose to be located in similar manners. Commissioner Rodriguez commented that she did not believe that the City should limit who goes into business or which property they purchase. She stated that customers will choose the business they want to frequent. Commissioner Trehus commented that quality design was a topic during the recent elections, which is why he believes that this topic would also be good for the joint meeting with the City Council.