Retailers say Orange's tobacco licensing rules unfairly hit gas stations; staff promises refinements

Multiple convenience‑store owners and retail trade representatives used public comment at the April 28 City Council meeting to urge revisions to Ordinance 12‑25, saying the tobacco licensing regime and related restrictions are harming long‑standing local businesses.

Martin Sherifinjad, who identified himself as a 7‑Eleven franchisee, said the city’s annual tobacco license fee — which he described as about $880 — and a wide reach for the ordinance will injure compliant retailers bound by corporate franchise agreements. “$880 a year is a lot of money… That’s a lot to come up with,” he told the council, urging a pragmatic solution that would protect small businesses and city revenue.

Brian Lamb, representing the California Fuels and Convenience Alliance, asked the council to consider an exemption or amendment for gas stations and convenience stores. He argued that provisions such as a 500‑foot buffer, a transfer prohibition and a total vape ban push customers to surrounding cities and the unregulated market and could reduce overall sales and sales‑tax receipts for Orange. “We respectfully urge city council to consider amending Ordinance 12‑25 to exempt all gas stations and convenience stores,” Lamb said.

City Manager (staff) told the council during reports that staff is working on refinements — specifically the 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. provision — and will reconnect with the speakers before bringing changes back to the full council. Councilmember Barrios requested that staff convene a stakeholder meeting including the retailers who spoke.

The council did not take final action on ordinance text at the meeting; staff will continue outreach and return with proposed adjustments.