removing the maximum tax and adjusting rates, and (2) approve a
resolution ordering the submission of a ballot measure to seek voter
approval of that ordinance at the November 5, 2024, General Municipal
Election and directing related actions.
15.2
RESOLUTION - TRANSIENT OCCUPANCY TAX BALLOT MEASURE
(THIS ITEM HAS BEEN CONTINUED TO THE AUGUST 6, 2024,
REGULAR MEETING.)
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended by the Finance Department
that the City Council (1) introduce an ordinance to amend chapter 3-28
of the Santa Rosa City Code to increase the Transient Occupancy Tax
(TOT) by two percent (2%), and (2) approve a resolution ordering the
submission of a ballot measure to seek voter approval of this ordinance
at the November 5, 2024, General Municipal Election and directing
related actions.
16. PUBLIC HEARINGS
Public Hearing matters will begin no earlier than 5:00 p.m. or as soon
thereafter as the matters are reached on the agenda.
16.1
PUBLIC HEARING - ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF SANTA ROSA ADDING CHAPTER 6-20 OF THE SANTA ROSA
CITY CODE TITLED “REGULATION OF RETAIL TOBACCO SALES,”
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE
AN AGREEMENT WITH THE COUNTY FOR COMPLIANCE
MONITORING AND ENFORCEMENT
BACKGROUND: The City Council will consider an ordinance that
proposes adding Chapter 6-20 to the Santa Rosa City Code titled
“Regulation of Retail Tobacco Sales” requiring all tobacco retailers to
obtain a license and comply with enhanced regulations associated with
tobacco sales, in particular, those targeting sales to youth. The
ordinance incorporates direction from Council provided during their
June 4, 2024, meeting revising sections associated with license transfer
language and the level of fines and penalties. The revised ordinance
does not alter the proposed language to establish a buffer between
retail locations and schools and parks, a ban on electronic tobacco
smoking devices and flavored tobacco sales, and establishment of
minimum package sizes and pricing. If adopted, the ordinance will
impose a license fee on retailers selling tobacco products within the
City limits. Staff will return to Council with a resolution to impose any
such fees.