Laserfiche WebLink
ORD. NO. 2024-53 <br />An ordinance establishing the definition of "Thrift Store" in section 1 1 15.1 1 of the Planning and <br />Zoning Code <br />It was explained that amendments to the zoning code for specific uses. such as marijuana, <br />casinos, and thrift stores, involve three steps: defining the use, deciding appropriate zoning <br />designations, and setting conditions for use. Ordinance 2024-53 defined the use. 2024-52 <br />incorporated it into the use table, and 2024-51 addressed conditional use. Five proposed <br />conditions for thrift stores were listed as, including location restrictions, prohibitions of outside <br />storage, size limits within shopping centers and restrictions on donation areas and boxes. <br />It was further explained that 2024-53 defined a thrift store as a retail establishment selling <br />donated merchandise below market value, excluding resale dealers like Play It Again Sports. <br />Ordinance 2024-52 proposed allowing thrift stores in the B3 business zoning district. subject to <br />specific conditions. This approach aligns with the comprehensive plan and ensures thrift stores <br />don't dominate the leasable floor area. <br />Public Comment: <br />Jeff Sturgeon on West 231" and Jim Burns from the North Olmsted Chamber of Commerce <br />During the public comment section there were comments in favor of the amended ordinances as <br />well as opposition. Some of the opposed comments were regarding the location restrictions. and <br />it was argued that the 3,000 -foot rule between thrift stores and other similar businesses would <br />severely limit the B3 district's viability. It was suggested that a 1,000 -foot door-to-door rule <br />instead. There was also criticism about the 25% leasable space restriction in shopping centers <br />and the conditional use requirement for resale shops, with the argument that these rules could <br />effectively ban such stores from the city. It was also emphasized there was need for affordable <br />retail options for low-income residents. <br />There was a question whether the mission of the thrift store, such as being run by Catholic <br />Charities or the American Cancer Society, was considered. The response clarified that the <br />legislation does not differentiate between non-profit and for-profit entities. The purpose of the <br />organization is not evaluated: instead, the use and zoning conditions are considered for approval. <br />It was noted that an economic development plan indicated and overabundance of thrift stores in <br />the city based on market demand. Consignment shops were not covered by this legislation. which <br />only addressed thrift stores. <br />Mr. David motioned to recommend approval to City Council Ord. 2024-51: seconded by Mr. <br />Peeples. <br />Motion passed: 6-0 <br />Mr. David motioned to recommend approval to City Council Ord. 2024-52: seconded by Mr. <br />Olivos. <br />