A conditional use permit approved by the Planning Commission allows a Chevron convenience store in Santa Monica to sell beer and wine, despite public opposition citing concerns about its proximity to Santa Monica College. The 6-0 vote came after commissioners acknowledged enforcement challenges while noting police department approval and existing precedents at other gas stations near schools throughout the city.
Under the permit, the 2,110-square-foot convenience store can sell off-site alcohol during regular business hours from 6 a.m. to midnight daily. However, several restrictions were imposed to address community concerns. The store cannot sell single-serve alcohol containers and must post no-loitering signs in the parking lot.
Commissioners raised questions about the enforcement of single-serve restrictions, with one official acknowledging that it would be a challenge to enforce consistently due to resource limitations. Public comments expressed concerns about impaired driving, drunk driving, and the potential for public safety problems associated with alcohol outlets near schools.
However, no members of the public spoke against the proposal during the meeting. Other gas stations in Santa Monica already sell alcohol near schools without additional restrictions. The police department expressed no concerns about the permit. The applicant representative highlighted that the business operates other ABC-licensed locations with no violations and emphasized that the sales would be ancillary to the primary convenience store operation.
The commission discussed potential policy changes, including streamlining applications and compliance reporting requirements. The permit takes effect immediately and will transfer to future owners of the property.
Source: https://smdp.com/government-politics-2/planning-commission-approves-alcohol-sales-at-gas-station-near-college