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City introduces zoning changes to regulate 'MARC' businesses; council moves ordinance forward
Summary
Staff introduced a zone text amendment to require retroactive planning approvals (minor use permits) for massage, certain alcohol outlets, recycling and tobacco 'MARC' businesses and to replace the tobacco moratorium with a phased compliance path; council introduced the ordinance for further consideration.
City planning staff proposed a zone text amendment (ZTA 2602) to establish a MARC compliance program addressing four business categories: massage, bars/liquor stores, recycling facilities, and retail tobacco shops where tobacco occupies at least 8% of floor area. Planning Manager Kendall Brecki said the changes would require existing MARC businesses to obtain minor use permits upon license renewal, allow waivers for long‑standing compliant businesses, and replace the current tobacco moratorium with clearer standards.
Brecki said the proposed approach balances enforcement and business continuity by granting one‑year license extensions to allow time for permit application and processing and by exploring a reduced MUP application fee in response to business concerns. Business owners at the meeting applauded the outreach but requested safeguards so law‑abiding businesses are not unfairly burdened.
Council introduced the ordinance and directed staff to return with the ordinance language and fee proposals; staff said they will bring a fee reduction proposal to the next council meeting.
