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HomeMy WebLinkAbout _ 6.1--Public Hearing regarding an Entertainment Zone in Downtown Redding CITY OF REDDING REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL Recommendation Conduct a Public Hearing and, upon conclusion, authorize and approve the following actions relative to Entertainment Zones in the City of Redding: (1) Offer Ordinance amending Redding Municipal Code Title 6 (Business Taxes, Licenses and Regulations) by adding Chapter 6.42 (Entertainment Zones) for first reading by title only, and waive the full reading; (2) Authorize the City Attorney to prepare and the City Clerk to publish a summary of the ordinance; (3) Adopt Resolution amending Title 6 – Business Taxes, Licenses and Regulations by adding Chapter 6.42 – Entertainment Zones to the Redding Municipal Code; and (4) Find that the adoption of the ordinance and resolution are exempt from environmental review pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act guidelines 15060(c)(2) and 15061(b)(3) and further find that the passage of the ordinance and resolution will have no foreseeable direct or indirect physical change in the environment. Fiscal Impact The Downtown Entertainment Zone’s fiscal impact will vary depending on the scope of implementation, including signage, public education, container distribution logistics, and enforcement needs, but are not expected to be significant. Redding Police Department (RPD) and City Manager Office staff will monitor a myriad of items, including, traffic flow, noise levels, vibrancy and activity, safety and security, along with staff time associated with the Entertainment Zone. Staff will bring back a report to City Council (Council) within six months of the zone establishment. MEETING DATE: August 19, 2025 ITEM NO. 6.1 FROM: ***APPROVED BY*** sbade@cityofredding.org btippin@cityofredding.org SUBJECT: 6.1--Public Hearing to consider adoption of a new Ordinance amending Redding Municipal Code Title 6 – Business Taxes, Licenses and Regulations – by adding Chapter 6.42 – Entertainment Zones Steve Bade, Assistant City Manager Report to Redding City Council August 13, 2025 Re: 6.1--Public Hearing regarding an Entertainment Zone in Downtown Redding Page 2 Alternative Action The City Council (Council) could decline to pursue an Entertainment Zone at this time ; direct staff to modify the Entertainment Zone parameters and continue the public hearing; or provide staff alternate direction. Background/Analysis Senate Bill 969, effective January 1, 2025, authorizes California cities to create designated public "entertainment zones," where individuals, aged 21 and over, may legally possess and consume open containers of alcoholic beverages purchased from licensed participating businesses. The goal of this legislation is to stimulate local economies, enhance cultural and social activities, and promote downtown vibrancy through well-regulated public spaces. In April 2025, City Manager Office staff and Chief Barner met with a representative group of downtown restaurant and bar owners; property owners; and event holders to discuss and evaluate the potential formation of an Entertainment Zone in downtown Redding. On June 13, 2025, The City Council directed staff to develop guidelines and return at a future City Council meeting. The following key parameters were collectively identified and are proposed in the ordinance and resolution: • Geographic Boundaries: The proposed Entertainment Zone is bordered by Eureka Way to the north; Lincoln Street to the south; Oregon Street to the west; and Pine Street/East Street alley to the east as specifically described in the attached map and ordinance exhibit. • Days of Operation: The zone would operate every day of the year (365 days), creating a consistent and predictable environment for residents, businesses, and visitors. • Hours of Operation: Alcohol consumption would be permitted from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily, allowing for safe daytime and early evening enjoyment while minimizing late-night disturbances. • Allowable Open Alcoholic Beverage Containers: The City will determine a standardized container for alcohol consumption within the zone. At present, staff is considering the use of a durable, non-glass, non-metal container which is in line with the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Guidelines, affixed with a recognizable sticker or marking, issued by licensed participating vendors, to easily identify compliant containers. • Alcohol Type: The type of alcoholic beverage permitted will not be restricted, allowing beer, wine, and spirits to be served in accordance with individual business licenses and state law. • Signage: The Downtown Entertainment Zone boundaries will be clearly marked by visible signage posted at every intersection of the zone. The signage will instruct patrons not to carry alcoholic beverages outside the zone. • Two-Year Review: The operation of the Downtown Entertainment Zone will be reviewed not less than every two years following the adoption of the ordinance to ensure that the Downtown Entertainment Zone is being maintained in a manner that protects the health and safety of the general public. This review shall be conducted by the City Manager or their designee and in consultation with Redding Police Department and ABC. Report to Redding City Council August 13, 2025 Re: 6.1--Public Hearing regarding an Entertainment Zone in Downtown Redding Page 3 If the ordinance is approved, staff will continue to conduct outreach with downtown businesses, RPD, ABC, and community members to inform zone logistics and ensure alignment with public safety and operational needs. Staff believes that the Downtown Redding Entertainment Zone will stimulate the downtown Redding economy, further support ongoing revitalization efforts and enhance the visitor experience. Environmental Review This action is not considered a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and is therefore exempt from CEQA review at this stage. Council Priority/City Manager Goals • Economic Development - “Facilitate and become a catalyst for economic development in Redding to create jobs, retain current businesses and attract new ones, and encourage investment in the community. • Government of the 21st Century – “Be relevant and proactive to the opportunities and challenges of today’s residents and workforce. Anticipate the future to make better decisions today. Attachments ^Ordinance ^Resolution Exhibit A Entertainment Zone Map 6-3-25 Staff Report ORDINANCE NO.______ AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF REDDING AMENDING REDDING MUNICIPAL CODE TITLE 6 (BUSINESS TAXES, LICENSES AND REGULATIONS) BY ADDING CHAPTER 6.42 (ENTERTAINMENT ZONES) THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDDING DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. Redding Municipal Code Title 6 (Business Taxes, Licenses and Regulations), Chapter 6.42 (Entertainment Zones), is added to read as follows: 6.42.010. Purpose. The purpose of this Chapter is to establish an Entertainment Zone within the City of Redding, pursuant to Senate Bill 969 (2024), where people can buy open container drinks (alcoholic drinks “to-go”) from local bars, restaurants, wineries, and breweries and enjoy them outside in common spaces such as plazas, sidewalks, and streets during certain hours for the purposes of creating active, commercial corridors, to stimulate the economy. 6.42.020. Definitions. For the purposes of this Chapter, the following definitions shall apply: (a) “ABC” means the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. (b) “Entertainment Zone” has the meaning set forth in Section 23039.5 of the California Business and Professions Code, as may be amended from time to time. (c) “Licensee” means any person, business, or other entity duly licensed to sell alcoholic beverages. 6.42.030. Entertainment Zone Boundary. (a) Downtown Entertainment Zone shall include all public streets, public rights-of-way, alleys and sidewalks in front of storefronts, and all establishments holding permits or licenses from ABC that are located within the Downtown Entertainment Zone further delineated in Exhibit A. (b) The boundaries of the Downtown Entertainment Zone may be amended from time-to-time by resolution of the City Council. 6.42.040. Days/Times. (a) Seven days a week, Sunday through Saturday. (b) 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (c) Days or times of operation may be amended from time-to-time by resolution of the City Council. (d) Sales or consumption of alcoholic beverages during the hours in which sales of alcoholic beverages are prohibited under Section 25631of the Business and Profession Code shall be prohibited. 6.42.050. Beverages Permitted. (a) The following types of alcoholic beverages are permitted within the Downtown Entertainment Zone: (1) Beer; (2) Wine; and (3) Mixed spirits (b) All open alcoholic beverages consumed in the Downtown Entertainment Zone shall be purchased only from a premises located within the Downtown Entertainment Zone that is authorized under California Business and Professions Code Section 23357, 23358, or 23396, as may be amended from time to time, to permit consumers to leave the premises with open containers of alcoholic beverages for consumption off the premises, or an organization that is authorized by ABC special event permit or license to make such sales within the Downtown Entertainment Zone. 6.42.060. Allowable Open Alcoholic Beverage Containers. (a) The City Manager is authorized and will coordinate with the Redding Police Department Chief for the approval of a standardized open container that complies with ABC’s guidelines. The container will be easily identifiable and affixed with a recognizable marking or sticker issued by a licensed participating vendor in the Downtown Entertainment Zone. (b) No alcoholic beverages purchased at a licensed premises may leave the premises in an open glass or metal container for consumption in the Downtown Entertainment Zone. 6.42.070. Signage The boundaries of the Downtown Entertainment Zone must be clearly marked by easily visible signage posted at every intersection around the perimeter of the zone. This signage must instruct patrons not to carry alcoholic beverages outside the Downtown Entertainment Zone (e.g., "No Alcoholic Beverages Beyond This Point"). Signs must be illuminated well enough to be sufficiently visible during nighttime hours. 6.42.080. Two-Year Review. The operation of the Downtown Entertainment Zone shall be reviewed no less than every two years following the adoption of the ordinance establishing the Downtown Entertainment Zone to ensure that the Downtown Entertainment Zone is being maintained in a manner that protects the health and safety of the general public. This review shall be conducted by the City Manager or their designee and in consultation with Redding Police Department and ABC. Section 2. The Council hereby finds and determines that the enactment of this Ordinance is exempt from the requirements of the CEQA pursuant to the “common sense” exemption (14 CCR Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines, as it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the adoption of the Ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment. Section 3. Severability. If any provision of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the remainder of the Ordinance and the application of such provision will remain in effect to the extent permitted by law. Section 4. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) calendar days after the date of its adoption, and the City Clerk shall certify to the adoption thereof and cause publication according to law. I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing ordinance was introduced and read by the City Council of the City of Redding at a regular meeting on the 19th day of August, 2025, and was duly read and adopted at a regular meeting on the ____ day of __________, 2025, by the following vote: AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS: _________________________________ JACK MUNNS, Mayor ATTEST: FORM APPROVED: ______________________________ __________________________________ SHARLENE TIPTON, City Clerk CHRISTIAN M. CURTIS, City Attorney DATE ATTESTED: _________, 2025 RESOLUTION NO. ________ A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDDING AMENDING TITLE 6 – BUSINESS TAXES, LICENSES AND REGULATIONS BY ADDING CHAPTER 6.42 – ENTERTAINMENT ZONES TO THE REDDING MUNICIPAL CODE WHEREAS, in 2024, the State of California adopted Senate Bill 969, which authorizes any city, county or city and county to pass an ordinance establishing an “entertainment zone;” and WHEREAS, Section 23039.5 of the California Business and Professions Code defines "entertainment zone" as a zone created by a city, county, or city and county ordinance on or after January 1, 2025, that authorizes consumption of one or more types of alcoholic beverages on public streets, sidewalks, or public rights-of-way; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Senate Bill 969, the City Council of the City of Redding ("City") desires to enact this ordinance to establish a Downtown Entertainment Zone for the purpose of allowing licensees to sell beer, wine, and mixed spirits alcoholic beverages for off-site consumption within the established area pursuant to the license held on premises with the licensee within the Downtown Entertainment Zone boundaries; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 23039.5 of the Business and Professions Code, the City Council establishes boundaries, as depicted on Exhibit A, and the dates and times for the Downtown Entertainment Zone; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Sections 23357, 23358, and 23396 of the Business and Professions Code, a licensed beer manufacturer, a licensed winegrower, and an on-sale licensee may permit consumers to leave the premises with open containers of alcoholic beverages for consumption off the premises within the Downtown Entertainment Zone if the following conditions are satisfied: (i) The premises is located within the entertainment zone. (ii) Consumption of that type of alcoholic beverage is authorized by the ordinance creating the entertainment zone. (iii) Open alcohol containers only leave the premises during the hours allowed by the ordinance establishing the entertainment zone. (iv) Patrons with open containers exit the premises directly into an entertainment zone. (v) All alcoholic beverages in the entertainment zone are purchased only at a licensed premises located within the entertainment zone. (vi) The premises expressly prohibits open containers or closed containers of alcoholic beverages acquired outside their premises. (vii) Delivery of alcoholic beverages to consumers within the entertainment zone by the licensee or by any third-party delivery service is expressly prohibited unless the delivery is to a residential building or private business that is not a licensee. (viii) No alcoholic beverages purchased at the licensed premises may leave the premises in an open glass or metal container for consumption in an entertainment zone. (ix) The licensee annually submits their notice of intent to participate in an open container entertainment zone to the department; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 25692 of the Business and Professions Code, the City has notified local law enforcement and received feedback regarding (1) potential health and safety impacts that might be generated by the entertainment zone and strategies to mitigate those impacts and (2) the entertainment zone's proposed boundaries, days and hours of operation, types of alcoholic beverages permitted, and approved nonglass and nonmetal containers; and WHEREAS, the operation of the Downtown Entertainment Zone shall be reviewed at least every two-years by the City to ensure that the entertainment zone is being maintained in a manner that protects the health and safety of the general public; and WHEREAS, licensees within the Downtown Entertainment Zone are not required to sell any alcoholic beverage for consumption off the premises; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Sections 23357, 23358, and 23396 of the Business and Professions Code, licensees whose privileges are restricted due to operating conditions or other statutory restrictions may be prohibited from exercising entertainment zone privileges that are contrary to their operating conditions. Any restrictions on the exercise of off-sale privileges shall not apply to the removal of open alcoholic beverages from the licensed premises for consumption in the entertainment zone. NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDDING DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: Section 1 - Recitals. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and incorporated herein by this reference. Section 2 - Downtown Entertainment Zone Established. The City Council hereby establishes the Downtown Entertainment Zone and adds a new Chapter 6.42 to the Redding Municipal Code to read as set forth in Exhibit B, which is incorporated herein by this reference and made a material part of this Ordinance. Section 3. Upon adopting this Ordinance establishing the Downtown Entertainment Zone, the City shall provide the documents and information required pursuant to Business and Professions Code 25690 to the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Section 4. The boundary, dates and times for the outdoor consumption of alcoholic beverages in the Downtown Entertainment Zone may be amended from time to time by resolution of the City Council. Section 5 - Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining portions of this Ordinance shall nonetheless remain in full force and effect. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions of this Ordinance be declared invalid or unenforceable. Section 6 - Publication. Within fifteen (15) days after its passage, the City Clerk of the City of Redding shall cause this Ordinance to be published in accordance with Section 36933 of the Government Code. Section 7 - Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect 30 days after the date of its adoption pursuant to Government Code Section 36937. Section 8 - California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This ordinance is exempt from the requirements of the CEQA pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines and is not a project which has the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. INTRODUCED by the Council of the City of Redding on the 19th day of August, 2025 and PASSED and APPROVED on the __th of August __, 2025, by the following roll call vote: AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ABSTAINING: COUNCIL MEMBERS: _____________________________ JACK MUNNS, Mayor ATTEST: FORM APPROVED: _________________________________ ___________________________________ SHARLENE TIPTON, City Clerk CHRISTIAN M. CURTIS, City Attorney ¦1 Fire Station Shasta Regional Medical Center C o u r t S t South St E a s t S t Shasta St Li be r t y S t Eureka Way M a r k e t S t C a l i f o r n i a S t Tehama St Shasta St M a r k e t S t Or e g o n S t Ca l i f o r n i a S t Li b e r t y S t Ce n t e r S t Tehama St Ea s t S t Placer St Wa l d o n S t Sacramento St Ce n t e r S t Gold St South St Butte St Lincoln St Gold St Sacramento St Butte St Ce n t e r S t Ma r k e t S t Yuba St Li b e r t y S t Yuba St E a s t S t Co u r t S t Pi n e S t Pi n e S t Pi n e S t Division St Market Center RABA Downtown Transit Center Amtrak Carnegie Park AKA "The Park" Old City Hall Whistle Stop Park Exhibit A - Downtown Redding Entertainment District Pr i n t D a t e : 7 / 7 / 2 0 2 5 0 250 500125 Feet P: \ E c o n o m i c D e v e l o p m e n t \ P r o P r o j e c t s \ D o w n t o w n R e d d i n g \ D o w n t o w n R e d d in g . a p r x / CITY OF REDDING REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL Recommendation Authorize and approve the following: (1) Accept report; and (2) Provide direction to staff regarding the development and implementation of an ordinance allowing an Entertainment Zone in the City of Redding pursuant to Senate Bill 969. Fiscal Impact Fiscal impacts will vary depending on the scope of implementation, including signage, public education, container distribution logistics, and enforcement needs, but are not expected to be significant. Alternative Action The City Council (Council) could decline to pursue an Entertainment Zone at this time or provide staff alternate direction. Background/Analysis Senate Bill 969, effective January 1, 2025, authorizes California cities to create designated public "entertainment zones" where individuals, aged 21 and over, may legally possess and consume open containers of alcoholic beverages purchased from licensed participating businesses. The goal of this legislation is to stimulate local economies, enhance cultural and social activities, and promote downtown vibrancy through well-regulated, inclusive public spaces. Staff is evaluating the potential formation of an Entertainment Zone in Downtown Redding to support ongoing revitalization efforts and to enhance the visitor experience. The following key parameters are being proposed for the initial framework: MEETING DATE: June 3, 2025 ITEM NO. 9.2(e) FROM: ***APPROVED BY*** sbade@cityofredding.org btippin@cityofredding.org SUBJECT: 9.2(e)--Consider development and implementation of an Entertainment Zone in the City of Redding. Steve Bade, Assistant City Manager Packet Pg. 605 Report to Redding City Council May 28, 2025 Re: 9.2(e)--Provide direction regarding an Entertainment Zone Page 2 • Geographic Boundaries: The proposed Entertainment Zone would encompass an area similar to the Downtown Core as identified in the City of Redding’s (City) Downtown Specific Plan (see map attached). Final boundaries will be developed in coordination with planning staff, public safety personnel, and stakeholders, and will be clearly marked to ensure compliance and enforcement. • Days of Operation: The zone would operate every day of the year (365 days), creating a consistent and predictable environment for residents, businesses, and visitors. • Hours of Operation: Alcohol consumption would be permitted from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily, allowing for safe daytime and early evening enjoyment while minimizing late-night disturbances. • Allowable Open Alcoholic Beverage Containers: The City will determine a standardized container for alcohol consumption within the zone. At present, staff is considering the use of a durable, non-glass, non-metal container which is in line with the State of California ABC Guidelines, affixed with a recognizable sticker or marking, issued by licensed participating vendors, to easily identify compliant containers. • Alcohol Type: The type of alcoholic beverage permitted will not be restricted, allowing beer, wine, and spirits to be served in accordance with individual business licenses and state law. Staff has and will continue to conduct outreach with downtown businesses, the Redding Police Department, and community members to inform zone logistics and ensure alignment with public safety and operational needs. In accordance with SB 969, a biennial review of the zone's operation will be conducted to evaluate impacts on public safety, health, and economic activity. Environmental Review This action is not considered a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and is therefore exempt from CEQA review at this stage. Council Priority/City Manager Goals • Economic Development - “Facilitate and become a catalyst for economic development in Redding to create jobs, retain current businesses and attract new ones, and encourage investment in the community. • Government of the 21st Century – “Be relevant and proactive to the opportunities and challenges of today’s residents and workforce. Anticipate the future to make better decisions today. Attachments ^Entertainment Zone - Downtown Specific Plan Boundary Map (2022) Packet Pg. 606 Entertainment Zone Item 6.1 –Public Hearing Amending RMC Title 6 –Business Taxes, Licenses and Regulations by adding Chapter 6.42 August 19, 2025 Steve Bade, Assistant City Manager What is an Entertainment Zone? A designated public space where individuals 21 and over may legally possess and consume alcohol in an open container* o Senate Bill 969 o Days of operation –365 days a year o Hours of operation –10 a.m. –10 p.m. o Alcoholic Beverage Container o Geographic Boundaries *Openly consume in an approved beverage container. Proposed Entertainment Zone Boundaries Fiscal Impact o Signage o Biennial Review o Public Education/Outreach o Beverage Container Distribution Logistics o Enforcement Needs Within six months of zone establishment, the City Manager’s Office collaborating with RPD will provide a report to Council. Report to include: o Traffic Flow o Noise Levels o Vibrancy and Activity o Safety and Security o Staff Time Associated with the Entertainment Zone Recommendation: o Offer Ordinance amending Redding Municipal Code Title 6 (Business Taxes, Licenses and Regulations) by adding Chapter 6.42 (Entertainment Zones) for first reading by title only, and waive the full reading; o Authorize the City Attorney to prepare and the City Clerk to publish a summary of the ordinance; and o Adopt Resolution amending Title 6 – Business Taxes, Licenses and Regulations by adding Chapter 6.42 –Entertainment Zones to the Redding Municipal Code; o Find that the adoption of the ordinance and resolution are is exempt from environmental review pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act guidelines 15060(c)(2) and 15061(b)(3) and further find that the passage of the ordinance and resolution will have no foreseeable direct or indirect physical change in the environment. Thank You! Questions?