City of Gainesville - File #: 190904.

• File #: 190904.
• Version: 2
• Type: Discussion Item
• Status: Passed
• File created: 1/27/2020
• In control: City Manager
• On agenda: 3/5/2020
• Final action: 3/5/2020
• Title: Small-Box Discount Retailer Restrictions (B)

Date	Ver.	Action By	Action	Result
3/5/2020	2	City Commission	Approved, as shown above	Pass
2/20/2020	1	City Commission	Withdrawn

Title

Small-Box Discount Retailer Restrictions (B)

Explanation

Efforts to expand healthy food options within communities have led to cities around the country exploring regulatory options to reduce the proliferation of “small-box discount retailers” (e.g. dollar stores) which tend to lack fresh food choices and can negatively impact rural and low-income communities that may struggle to support full service grocery stores. Regulations such as minimum distance separation standards between small-box discount retailers are an example of relatively simple regulations that may help mitigate the negative impacts from an overconcentration of stores in low-income communities. A more detailed analysis of policy options is included in the backup along with a map of existing small-box discount retailers. Additionally, the USDA has identified geographical areas with a substantial number or share of residents with low levels of access to retail outlets selling healthy and affordable foods (see backup 2015 USDA map for identified areas within the City of Gainesville).

Fiscal Note

None  

Recommendation

The City Commission provide direction to the City Manager to begin drafting regulations establishing a minimum separation distance between small-box discount retailers for Plan Board and City Commission consideration.