The commission’s foremost concern was the proposed ordinance related to the sale of alcoholic beverages, especially concerning the implications of establishing a youth center at John’s Pass. This proposed development raised questions about the impact on the legality of new alcohol-serving establishments in the area. The commission debated the potential for existing businesses to be classified as non-conforming should a youth center open nearby. The commission highlighted the importance of maintaining the existing distance requirements, which have been part of the code for 20 to 30 years, and scrutinized the reasoning behind increasing the distance requirement from 300 to 500 feet. This change aligns with state statutes and is a common practice among various municipalities.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the definition of “lesser intensity” regarding alcohol sales, where some members noted a lack of clarity in the current code. The commission acknowledged the need for a precise definition to ensure clarity in applications concerning different types of alcohol licenses. Additionally, the topic of revocation of alcohol beverage zoning was examined, particularly concerning businesses that have not sold alcohol for a continuous six-month period. Concerns were raised about the fairness of this provision for businesses that might face extenuating circumstances, such as disaster declarations or unforeseen closures. It was suggested that revocation should only occur when a state license lapses, prompting a proposal to revise the ordinance’s wording to ensure businesses facing legitimate hardships are not unduly penalized.

The commission also discussed temporary alcohol permits for events and festivals, clarifying the process for businesses setting up temporary kiosks for selling alcohol. The procedure involves a state application reviewed and signed off by the city before submission. The Planning Department oversees these applications, allowing multiple submissions for different events.

Attention was given to a section of the code addressing grandfathering for establishments selling alcoholic beverages, especially in light of a school opening within the 500-foot radius. The commission recognized that businesses could continue operations as long as they renewed their occupational licenses, which was seen as a positive aspect of the existing provisions.

After a discussion, the commission approved the ordinance concerning alcoholic beverages, including the proposed amendments. The motion received a second, and a roll call vote confirmed unanimous approval from all present members.

In addition to alcohol zoning, the commission discussed ordinance 2025-251, which pertains to the Johns Pass Village Activity Center. The ordinance proposed updates to the Land Development Regulations (LDRs) by renaming the former C1 zoning district to the Johns Pass Village Activity Center and updating references to the older C2 Marine Commercial District. These changes were intended to streamline zoning designations and ensure congruity within existing ordinances. After a brief discussion, the commissioners approved the motion regarding the new zoning designation.

Ordinance 2025-10, concerning accessory structures, was also addressed. The ordinance proposed updates reflecting recent zoning changes in Johns Pass, specifically restricting accessory structures to the rear yard only and ensuring setbacks mirrored those of the principal structure. Different character districts under the new zoning had varying requirements for accessory structures, maintaining similar standards to previous regulations. A commissioner questioned whether an analysis had been conducted to determine the number of non-conforming units created by these changes. It was clarified that the analysis considered current structures and that existing ones would remain legally non-conforming. The commission approved the ordinance regarding accessory structures after addressing these points.