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Council narrows tobacco retail-license transfers; exempts gas stations in 6–1 vote
Summary
Council approved Ordinance 25-14 on a second reading to allow transfer of tobacco retail licenses for gas stations while maintaining stricter transfer rules for other retailers; debate centered on public health concerns and service-level arguments for gas stations.
HILLIARD, Ohio — On second reading May 27, the Hilliard City Council passed Ordinance 25-14 by a 6–1 vote to amend local code section 757.05 on transfers of tobacco retail licenses, creating an exemption for vehicle service stations (gas stations) in change-of-ownership transfers.
Staff explained the version before council would “make exceptions for as they're termed in our code vehicle service stations versus our gas stations,” clarifying that a new owner of a gas station would remain eligible for a tobacco retail license even if within 1,000 feet of a youth-oriented facility. Council member Cynthia (last name not provided) expressed concern that “I don't feel like the case has been made to exempt them,” noting she was not convinced redevelopment would be overly onerous.
Proponents noted the city relies on gas station services and fuel tax revenue flows through the state level; staff said the tax is collected by the state. Council also asked whether the transfer would apply only to gas stations; staff confirmed the transfer exception would be limited to gas stations and not other retailer types.
The ordinance passed with one no vote from Miss Vermillion; the roll call recorded six yes votes and one no. Council directed that the ordinance take effect “at the earliest date allowable by law.”
