pages: PlanningBoard/2015-03-09.pdf, 2
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PlanningBoard | 2015-03-09 | 2 | that he potentially loses. Mr. Jaspal Sekhon, owner of the 7-11 across the street, opposed the project. He said that Walgreens is a big store that threatens the nine other liquor stores in the area. He said that there are vagrancy issues in the area, as well as at South Shore Center. He reminded the Board that the Zoning Administrator denied a similar use permit for the 76 gas station. He said that other cities have prohibited the sale of alcohol at downtown Walgreens locations. Ms. Preethi Swetha, resident, said she supported the appeal. She said that big-name chains are convenient for the public, but they can have a negative impact on the small businesses in the area. Mr. Dominic Carrion, Alameda resident, said he was a victim of a felony drunk driver about eight years ago. He said that the City should be restricting, not increasing, alcohol sales. He said he has nothing against Walgreens, but questioned the need for more places that sell alcohol in Alameda. Mr. Dave Salazar, resident, said that many of the vagrants on Alameda come from Oakland. Many of them come to Alameda in search of alcohol. He urged the board to reconsider the use permit, because vagrants negatively affect the quality of life in Alameda. Mr. Joel Gutierrez said that big chains have a history of forcing smaller businesses to close. He feared that a Walgreens that can sell alcohol on Park Street would lead to negative effects on the businesses in the area. Mr. Jerry Coulon stated his opposition to granting Walgreens a liquor license. He said that part of Alameda's charm is the small businesses on Park Street. He said he shops at Walgreens for many convenience items, but he said that he does not support alcohol sales from a big corporation. Mr. Yagumeet Sindhu said that the Walgreens on Park Street made no economic sense. He said that the Walgreens in San Leandro does not have a liquor license, and their sales are quite fine. The Board closed public comment. Board Member Knox White asked Mr. Tai about the description of this particular liquor license. Mr. Tai explained that this particular license allows for the sale of beer, wine, and spirits. Mr. Tai explained that other business on Park Street also have this type of liquor license. Board Member Knox White asked if the Board had to make findings to make a decision. Mr. Thomas explained that the Board should, for the record, make findings in order to approve or deny the liquor license. If the Planning Board cannot make findings, they should state so for the record. Approved Regular Meeting Minutes Page 2 of 8 March 9, 2015 | PlanningBoard/2015-03-09.pdf |