Council to consider zoning change so proposed cigar lounge can sell alcohol without kitchen

A city staff member told the council that Ordinance 2026-2 would amend the zoning ordinance so a new cigar lounge could sell alcohol without having a kitchen or meeting current food‑sales percentage requirements.

The change was requested after the building formerly occupied by JW Package Store became available and a prospective operator asked to open a cigar lounge and sell alcohol. Staff said the ordinance amendment would modify the percentage requirement "so that as a cigar lounge he's still able to operate and sell alcohol without having to do a kitchen or sell a certain amount of food." The speaker added that even if zoning permits alcohol uses, "any alcohol sales within the city have to come before the council for approval."

Council members and staff discussed whether the amendment must return to the Planning & Zoning Commission or can be amended directly by the council at its next meeting. Staff recommended confirming the process with the city attorney, but said planning had "already did what they needed to do" and that the council could likely amend the ordinance on the next council agenda. A council member confirmed a public hearing is scheduled for the next council meeting.

Speakers also noted that the city's code currently limits package stores to two locations, requires spacing from schools and churches, and that each applicant would still need council approval. Staff said the council has been "very strict" about who can open a package store.

The ordinance will appear on the council agenda for a vote at the next meeting; staff recommended attorney review before formal action. No vote or final decision was recorded during the work session.