Council reviews code change to let standalone alcohol uses operate in Limited Commercial zone

Planning staff presented a proposed code amendment that would add a permitted use for standalone alcohol establishments in the Limited Commercial (LC) zone, allowing those businesses to apply directly for liquor licenses while maintaining separation requirements for schools and churches.

The staff memo explained the change is not conditional use and would simply add alcohol as a permitted use in the LC use table; the item passed the Planning Commission unanimously on Sept. 1. Council discussion balanced business flexibility and walkability against police concerns about proliferation and proximity to residential areas. "This went to planning commission on the September 1 and it it did pass unanimously," a planning representative confirmed. Council did not vote on the ordinance at the work session but asked for a staff memo and pros-and-cons for the council packet ahead of the formal hearing and vote.