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Council approves sewer rate plan, orders tobacco licensing study and expands cannabis hours
Summary
At its meeting, the National City Council voted to accept a five‑year sewer rate plan, directed staff to draft a tobacco retail licensing ordinance, expanded allowable hours for cannabis storefronts to match state law, and approved a series of appointments and consent items.
The National City Council on an evening vote moved forward a package of actions that will affect utility charges, public‑health enforcement and local cannabis businesses.
Councilors voted to accept a sewer‑rate study that proposes a 3% annual increase over five years and revisions to the city's reserve policy so the sewer fund can support planned capital work and operations. The council also directed staff to begin the public notice and hearing process required under Proposition 218.
In separate votes the council authorized staff to develop a local tobacco retail license (TRL) program in coordination with County of San Diego staff, including planning for yearly compliance checks and fees to fund enforcement. The council also voted to change the municipal code to allow storefront cannabis retailers to operate 6 a.m.–10 p.m., matching the state's permitted hours.
Other actions included the appointment of Patricia McGee to the Library Board of Trustees and the reappointment of planning‑commission incumbent Claudia Valenzuela; approval of the consent calendar and the city's warrant register; and a closed‑session authorization to settle a sewer‑backup liability claim for $46,000.
Why it matters: The sewer vote sets the schedule for rate increases and reserve levels that will fund pipeline replacements and Metro treatment costs. The TRL direction begins a formal process to require city permits and inspections of tobacco retailers; proponents said the program will help reduce youth access, while some business interests warned about cost and impacts on retail density. Expanding cannabis hours takes local rules in line with state law and council supporters said it preserves tax revenue and keeps purchases in the regulated market.
Council votes (summary): sewer study — approved; TRL direction — approved 4–1; cannabis hours — approved 4–1; consent calendar and warrants — approved; appointments — approved; closed‑session settlement — authorized $46,000.
What comes next: Staff will mail notices and schedule public hearings required by Prop. 218 for the sewer charge changes. For the TRL, staff will prepare a draft ordinance, fee study and compliance plan and return to council for consideration. A municipal code amendment on cannabis hours will be drafted for formal introduction and adoption on a future council agenda.
Votes at a glance: The council recorded roll‑call or voice votes for each formal action during the meeting; the sewer rate and reserve revision item passed unanimously; the tobacco retail license direction and the cannabis operating‑hours change each passed 4–1.
