Loomis planning commission recommends zoning changes to bar syringe‑service programs, refers ordinance to council

The Loomis Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the town council adopt zoning changes that would add Chapter 13.48 to the Loomis Municipal Code and amend multiple zoning sections to reference an existing municipal ban on syringe‑service (needle‑exchange) programs.

Planning Director Christie told the commission the recommended additions would codify the council’s earlier action (Chapter 5.24) and provide definitions, conformance language, abatement and penalties to enable code enforcement. Christie said the action was precipitated by an application submitted to the California Department of Public Health by Safer Alternatives through Networking and Education (SANE). Staff emphasized the zoning language is intended to ensure consistency between Chapter 5.24 and the zoning code.

Commission discussion focused on whether the town should ban syringe‑service programs permanently, whether the language unintentionally blocks related health services, and how state licensing interacts with local bans. A commissioner who identified himself as Nathan said he had researched programs in other jurisdictions and noted high operational costs and limited uptake of ancillary services in some examples. Christie clarified the draft language includes section 13.48.30 which, as written in the staff draft, states that "regardless of any state license issued for syringe activity in any other jurisdiction, no state licensee may undertake any syringe exchange program activity within the town of Loomis under such a state license." She also said the zoning updates reference chapter 5.24 so the definitions and enforcement provisions are aligned with the council’s prior action.

A resident, Gary Sedelli of Arcadia Avenue, commented during public comment that he opposed such programs and said he believed adopting a permanent ban was appropriate for the town.

After discussion, a commissioner moved to approve staff's recommended action (the resolution recommending adoption of Chapter 13.48 and the associated zoning amendments); another commissioner seconded. The clerk called the roll and each commissioner recorded a "yes" vote; the commission recommended the ordinance changes be adopted by the town council.