Council adopts ordinance to regulate automated ice machines and kiosks

The council approved an ordinance establishing a new definition and zoning rules for "automated ice machine" kiosks. Staff described the use as a self-service retail kiosk that dispenses bagged ice and filtered water and said the proposed code would typically require a standalone structure, no indoor customer area, and a minimum of three parking spaces.

Under the proposal the use would be allowed only as a conditional use in general retail, commercial, mixed-use and light-industrial zoning categories, meaning applicants must submit location details, parking dimensions and potentially appear before planning and zoning and the city council for site-specific review. The council opened and closed the public hearing and approved the ordinance by voice vote; staff had recommended approval.