Salinas City Council reviews conditional use permit for alcohol sales at La Corona Market

The Salinas City Council convened on May 6, 2025, to discuss a contentious conditional use permit (CUP) application for RJ Liquor Incorporated, which seeks to establish off-sale alcohol sales at La Corona Market on East Alisal Street. This proposal has sparked significant debate among council members and community members, primarily due to concerns about the area's existing high concentration of alcohol outlets and associated crime rates.

The proposed location is situated in a mixed-use area that already has five active off-sale alcohol licenses, exceeding the state-mandated limit of four for the census tract. The Salinas Police Department reported that the area has a notably high crime rate, with 241 incidents recorded in 2023, raising alarms about the potential impact of adding another alcohol outlet so close to schools and parks. The nearest school, Sherwood School, is approximately 630 feet away, significantly closer than the average distance of 1,900 feet typically required for such establishments.

During the meeting, council members expressed their concerns about the implications of approving the permit. Council Member Barrera highlighted the negative effects of alcohol availability on youth and community safety, referencing past studies that indicated a high density of alcohol outlets could lead to increased crime and public disorder. Other members echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need to prioritize community well-being over business interests.

Despite the police department's lack of objection to the permit, contingent upon certain conditions like enhanced surveillance and lighting, many council members remained skeptical. They questioned whether the convenience of having another alcohol outlet justified the potential risks to public safety and the community's quality of life.

Public comments reflected a similar apprehension, with several residents voicing their opposition to the permit. They cited concerns about the proximity of alcohol sales to schools and the potential for increased crime and disorder in an already troubled neighborhood. Some residents argued that the area does not need more alcohol outlets, especially given the existing challenges with crime and public safety.

As the council deliberated, it became clear that the decision would not only affect the immediate area but also set a precedent for future applications in neighborhoods facing similar issues. The council ultimately decided to postpone a vote on the CUP, allowing for further discussion and consideration of the community's concerns.

This meeting underscores the ongoing struggle in Salinas to balance business development with the health and safety of its residents, particularly in neighborhoods already grappling with high crime rates and social challenges. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining how the city navigates these complex issues moving forward.