Planning commission grants ARCO convenience store beer and wine license over resident objections
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Summary
The commission approved a conditional‑use permit allowing a Type 20 off‑sale beer and wine license at an ARCO convenience store on Foothill Boulevard by a 5–1 vote after the owner agreed to enhanced security, camera access for police and a notarized acceptance of conditions; nearby residents opposed citing alcohol and homelessness concerns.
The Planning Commission voted 5–1 to allow an ARCO convenience store at 2696 Foothill Boulevard to obtain a California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control Type 20 off‑sale beer and wine license, after hearing mixed public comment and receiving staff analysis showing the census tract would not exceed its allotted off‑sale licenses.
Planner Angeline Mendoza explained the site is in Census Tract 0043.01, which allows an additional off‑sale license without creating an overconcentration. The Police Department reviewed calls for service and provided a neutral analysis; staff recommended approval subject to standard conditions and a requirement that the applicant sign and return a notarized affidavit acknowledging acceptance of the conditions.
Applicant representatives described investments in lighting, point‑of‑sale ID checks and upgraded camera systems that police can access remotely, and said they had gathered letters of support. Neighbors voiced opposition, citing an existing high density of alcohol outlets in Ward 6, concerns about alcohol‑related incidents and nearby homeless activity. One resident said children use nearby bus stops and parks and asked that staff confirm whether the motel had been receiving city vouchers.
The commission debated proximity to sensitive uses; staff confirmed the site meets the city’s 500‑foot locational restrictions for churches and schools and said the nearest school is roughly 3,000 feet away. After discussion, the commission adopted staff’s recommendation with the additional condition that the applicant sign a notarized affidavit accepting the conditions. The vote was five in favor and one opposed (Commissioner Armstead).