Council introduces zoning change and conditional-use permit for proposed 11,000-sq.-ft. urban market; first reading waived

The council reopened a previously heard zoning amendment and conditional-use permit application on Aug. 6 and opened the public hearing; staff recommended introducing and waiving the first reading of a zoning-text-amendment ordinance to allow sit-down restaurants by right in the C-5 General Commercial zone and to treat sit-down restaurants with alcohol as a conditional use. The council approved a resolution associated with the project and introduced the ordinance (first reading waived); staff confirmed the item will return for a required second reading and adoption at the next meeting on Aug. 20.

The applicant (representative on behalf of a client in escrow to purchase three parcels) described the project as an 11,000-square-foot urban market with multiple dining options, a proprietary fuel brand, and local hiring commitments. The representative estimated fuel throughput of "at least 200,000 gallons a month" and projected a large share of taxable in-store sales; he said the operation would aim to capture traffic headed to and from Reedley, create jobs and provide new late-night options. Council members asked whether the applicant would enter a development agreement; staff advised a development agreement would require a separate public hearing and contract negotiation and cannot be completed at the same meeting.