Council reverses prior delay on downtown amortization discussion, directs staff to resume business outreach

The council revisited item 9.3, a prior November motion that had delayed discussion on amortization and downtown nonconforming uses. The mayor moved to undo the delay and direct staff to proceed with business outreach and community meetings (SEG 875–886, SEG 1101–1110). Assistant City Manager Justin Tucker described plans for expanded outreach in partnership with the Corona Chamber to include group community meetings and business improvement district conversations (SEG 1116–1126).

Public commenters were split. Tim Grambling of the Corona Chamber (SEG 917–923) applauded the council’s step to resume conversations; some residents, including Rory Connell and others, criticized past outreach, sought broader public surveys and requested transparent questions and timelines (SEG 933–964). Several downtown business owners and property owners also urged inclusion in planning and expressed willingness to work with the city (SEG 1015–1040).

Councilmembers debated whether to proceed with staff‑led outreach or to form an ad‑hoc committee; proponents argued immediate staff outreach would accelerate information flow, while others favored larger group meetings rather than individual conversations. The council voted 4–1 to undo the delay and move forward with community meetings and expanded outreach (SEG 1211–1214).