Taft planning commission approves off-sale beer and wine permit for 431 Kern Street

The City of Taft Planning Commission voted 4-0 on March 4, 2026 to approve Conditional Use Permit 2026-01, allowing off-sale beer and wine (a Type 20 ABC license) at 431 Kern Street, the commission chair said.

Planning director Luke told the commission the permit — requested by applicant Zachary Brown — is required because the property lies in a census tract the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) has deemed over-concentrated. Luke said the application therefore must proceed by conditional use permit and include findings of public convenience and necessity; staff recommended approval and included standard conditions in the draft resolution. "Staff recommends approval of the conditional use permit," Luke said.

Luke said the city had requested comment from the police chief in late January…