Target seeks approval for upgraded alcohol license to include distilled spirits sales

The National City Planning Commission convened on August 18, 2025, to discuss a proposal from Target to upgrade its existing alcohol sales license. The meeting focused on Target's request for a conditional use permit (CUP) to expand its offerings from beer and wine to include distilled spirits.

The current license, a type 20 issued in February 2006, allows for beer and wine sales. The proposed upgrade to a type 21 license would enable the sale of distilled spirits, which Target plans to display in a designated area of the store. The proposed layout includes approximately 56 linear feet of shelf space for distilled spirits, compared to the existing 30 linear feet for beer and wine.

Target is also seeking an ancillary instructional ABC license type 86, which does not require a CUP as it is not directly related to alcohol sales. The store's proposed hours of operation remain from 7 AM to midnight daily, with extended hours during holidays to accommodate increased customer traffic.

The commission noted that the municipal code permits off-site alcohol sales in the Mixed-Use Development Zone (MXD2) with a CUP. The applicant conducted a community meeting on May 28, which saw no attendance. The area is currently served by multiple on-sale licenses from nearby restaurants, with Target being the only off-sale license holder, indicating no over-concentration of such licenses.

The police department provided a risk assessment, categorizing the business as medium risk due to potential theft in the mall environment. Comments from the Institute for Public Strategies emphasized the importance of responsible beverage sales training and suggested that distilled spirits be kept in locked storage to mitigate risks.

The commission discussed the necessity of maintaining security measures for the new spirits sales, given the area's crime rate. Staff recommended approval of the CUP, asserting that the conditions of approval would address community concerns and ensure responsible sales practices.

The commission's options included approving the project as exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), denying the CUP, or continuing the item for further information. The staff's recommendation for approval will be forwarded to the city council if the commission votes in favor.

The meeting concluded with the applicant, represented by attorney Beth Abalafia, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to participate remotely and reiterating Target's commitment to responsible alcohol sales.