Superstores, Homeless, Bag Ban on Council Agenda

Wednesday Dec. 12, City Council will address several items, including the possibility of putting a moratorium on new grocery stores east of Hwy 101, as well as on all supstores in South City.

In recent months, the city became aware of Walmart's interest in moving into the current Lowe's building east of 101. Council has had several public conversations about whether such an addition to the city would have positive effects. Last month, city staff and consultants conducted a study on how a superstore would affect the local economy.

At his final meeting as a city councilmember last month, newly elected State Assemblyman Kevin Mullin pushed to agendenize a discussion of a possible moratorium. Adopting such a moratorium would buy the city time decide whether it actually wants the superstore to move in.

South City residents have expressed strong opinions both for and against a Walmart superstore in South City.

Last week, the city received a letter from Lowe's Vice President of Real Estate Timothy L. Cooksey, urging the city not to impose a moratorium on superstores. Such a move, the letter said, could have a negative effect on the Lowe's ability to find a new tenant for the space, in the event that Lowe's leaves that location.

Members of the public will have a chance to speak at Wednesday's public hearing on the topic.

Also on Wednesday's meeting agenda is the final approval of an ordinance to prohibit single-use bags in retail establishments in South City, which goes into effect April 2013. Non-profits and restaurants are generally excluded from the requirement.

Stores will still be allowed to hand out recycled paper bags or reusable bags, if they charge at least 10 cents. Beginning in 2015, that minimum fee will go up to 25 cents. Retail establishments will be subject to fines of varying amounts up to $500, if they are found to be in violation of the new code.

The meeting agenda, attached to this story, also includes:

• A resolution to adopt a grant program with InnVision/Shelter Network to create a Permanent Urban Supportive Housing Program and a Homeless Outreach Team to address the problem of chronic homelessness in South City.
• Motion to appoint new representatives to the Conference Center Authority Board.
• Appointment of South City resident Frank Risso as City Treasurer (this will occurr at 6:55pm, just before the regular meeting begins.)
• Loan agreements between the city and the Successor Agency to the Redevelopment Agency. 
• Update on applications received for the open City Council seat, which are due at 5:00 p.m. Dec. 13

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