For Economic Development Committee [November 15, 2017]
TO: Honorable Economic Development Committee Members
APPROVAL: Robb R. Steel, Asst. CA/Director of Dev. Svs.
FROM: Gina M Gibson- Williams, Planning Manager
Title
Discussion of Alcohol Sales for Off-Site Consumption Draft Ordinance (Planning)
Body
BACKGROUND:
The Rialto Municipal Code establishes minimum distance requirements for businesses engaging in the sale of alcohol beverages for off-site consumption. In conjunction with Conditional Development Permit No. 769 and Variance No. 709, the City Council directed staff to evaluate the equity and reasonableness of these distance requirements and modify the Code so that separation distances do not unfairly restrict such businesses from economic vitality and sustainability, while still protecting the general health, safety, and welfare of the public. The intent of the amendment is to eliminate practical difficulties, unnecessary hardships, or inconsistency with the general purpose of this Title 18 while also securing public safety and welfare and provided substantial justice. The Planning Commission and the City Council reviewed the proposed Ordinance at public hearings conducted on October 12th and October 25th and tabled.
ANALYSIS/DISCUSSION:
Proposed Ordinance
The proposed Ordinance eliminates the separation distance requirement between off-sale alcoholic beverage establishments, which accomplishes one of the directives given by the Economic Development Committee. The proposed Ordinance also allows such businesses to modify their license from a beer and wine to a full alcohol sales license. The amendment adds Section 18.110.090 regarding determinations of public convenience or necessity. Currently the Municipal Code does not provide criteria for public convenience and necessity and these letters are required from the State Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. The proposed Ordinance eliminates the Section that requires new residential de...
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