Redlands Planning Commission reviews Sprouts Farmers Market alcohol license upgrade request

A significant discussion unfolded at the City of Redlands Planning Commission meeting on January 28, 2025, as the commission considered a request from Sprouts Farmers Market to upgrade its alcoholic beverage control license. The grocery store, located at 560 West Stewart Avenue, is seeking to change from a Type 20 license, which permits off-sale beer and wine, to a Type 21 license, allowing for general off-sale alcohol sales.

Jasmine Serrato, representing the city staff, presented the details of the conditional use permit application. She highlighted that the proposed change aligns with the city’s transit village designation, which promotes mixed-use developments and pedestrian-friendly environments. The alcohol sales would be a secondary aspect of the grocery operation, with a designated display area of approximately 707 square feet situated away from main entrances to ensure safety and compliance.

Despite the request being made in an area already saturated with off-sale licenses—nine active and one pending—the commission noted that Sprouts currently holds a Type 20 license, meaning there would be no net increase in licenses if the request is approved. The commission must determine if the application meets the necessary findings for approval, especially given the area's classification as one of undue concentration for alcohol sales.

Staff recommended the commission adopt a resolution to approve the request, citing that the proposal qualifies for exemption from environmental review due to its nature as an existing facility. The meeting proceeded without the applicant present, as they were delayed in traffic, but the commission continued to evaluate the merits of the proposal based on the staff report.

The outcome of this request could significantly impact the local grocery landscape, as the approval would allow Sprouts to expand its offerings and potentially enhance customer convenience in the Redlands Packing House District.