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Council delays decision on new vape/tobacco permit, plans moratorium study
Summary
Councilors voted to postpone action on a new cigarette/tobacco/nicotine vapor permit and directed staff to prepare a proposed moratorium on new permits while the city studies zoning and public-health options; the postponement was set for the Sept. 15 council meeting.
The City Council on Aug. 18 postponed consideration of an application for a cigarette, tobacco and nicotine vapor permit for a proposed business at 704 Main Street and directed staff to prepare a moratorium on new similar permits while the city studies possible zoning or regulatory changes.
Mayor and staff explained the city received a referral last October to review restrictions on sales of vape, tobacco and alternative nicotine products near schools, libraries and other locations. Because the ordinance-review process will take time, staff recommended a nine-month study period and a moratorium on issuing new permits while the city evaluates potential ordinance amendments or regulatory measures.
Councilor Latta moved and Councilor Gamfield seconded a motion to postpone the permit decision to the Sept. 15 council meeting to allow the moratorium language to be drafted and considered at the Sept. 2 meeting. After discussion, a motion to postpone carried 5–2. The mayor said the moratorium, if approved, will not affect existing permit holders; it would apply to new applications during the study period.
Public commenters urged caution because of concerns about youth exposure and addiction. The mayor and several councilors said staff would bring a proposed moratorium for council consideration at the Sept. 2 meeting and that the permit would return on Sept. 15 if needed depending on the moratorium outcome.
