Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Bernardino public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in zoning
Immigration enforcement resolutions (Items 17 & 18)
Roughly a dozen speakers, many with CHIRLA and allied organizations, urged the council to adopt a pro-immigrant resolution protecting access to services amid increased ICE enforcement. The item wasn't on the agenda, so no vote was taken.
Alcohol sales conditions at Waterman Avenue convenience store
The commission let a Waterman Avenue store update its alcohol conditions to match changing industry packaging — allowing any-size factory multi-packs instead of six-packs only — citing low area crime stats and no policing issues.
ABC license upgrade at Palm Avenue truck service station
A request to upgrade the convenience store's alcohol license from beer-and-wine to general off-sale was pushed to November 10 so the commission can consider it fully.
Water-Efficient Landscaping Standards (Ordinance MC-1669)
The city's landscaping development rules were up for an update to comply with state water-efficiency law (SB 1383/MWELO). This affects what new developments must plant and irrigate citywide.
Cannabis dispensary at 1792 W. Highland Avenue
A dispensary relocation to 1602 W. Highland Ave drew fierce opposition from Ward 6 residents worried about proximity to churches, a hospital and senior housing. The council split the decision, approving the ownership change but delaying the location.
Short-term rental ban vs. regulation
The city must choose between regulating short-term rentals (MC-1660) or banning them in residential zones (MC-1661). The hearing was pushed to February 18 because key documents were missing from the public packet, giving residents two more weeks to weigh in.
General Plan 2050 update
The city's first comprehensive plan update since 2005 is nearly done. It projects about 36,000 new homes and 60,000 jobs over 25 years, simplifies zoning categories, and adds an environmental justice element. Public review starts around June 1; adoption hearings are expected in the fall.
Preservation of the historic Azteca Theater
Commissioners want to explore whether the privately owned Azteca Theatre can be recognized as a historic Route 66 landmark, and what the city's process for such designations looks like.