By Tim Schneider, Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce
During its session at 2:00 p.m. today, Toledo City Council is expected to consider moving out of committee a proposal that would require obtaining a city-issued license in order to operate a convenience store. Council could vote on the proposal at its December 21 meeting.
Under the proposal, applicants would be required to pay $250 annually per location and provide their name and residence, history of operating previous stores, verification of code compliance, and a criminal background check. License holders would be required to maintain code compliance, report crimes on the premises, and maintain lighting and surveillance cameras. Those operating a store without a license would be subject to a maximum fine of $250 and 30 days in jail, with the business being subject to a maximum fine of $2,000. Failure to meet the requirements by those holding a license would result in fines of $100 per violation.
The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce opposes the ordinance as it would discriminate against convenience stores by subjecting them to more burdensome regulations than other business types. Concerns include the need to focus more attention on addressing issues through enforcement of the City’s existing requirements, and the impact of additional regulatory barriers on the cost of doing business and nearby food options for residents.
Those wanting to voice concerns with the ordinance are encouraged to contact members of Toledo City Council by phone at 419-245-1050 or by sending a message via email. Toledo City Council meetings are held in Council Chambers at One Government Center located in downtown Toledo, and can be attended in-person or viewed via video on the city's website.
The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce opposes the ordinance as it would discriminate against convenience stores by subjecting them to more burdensome regulations than other business types. Concerns include the need to focus more attention on addressing issues through enforcement of the City’s existing requirements, and the impact of additional regulatory barriers on the cost of doing business and nearby food options for residents.
Those wanting to voice concerns with the ordinance are encouraged to contact members of Toledo City Council by phone at 419-245-1050 or by sending a message via email. Toledo City Council meetings are held in Council Chambers at One Government Center located in downtown Toledo, and can be attended in-person or viewed via video on the city's website.
 | Tim Schneider As Manager for Local Government Advocacy, Tim Schneider advocates for local policies and laws that safeguard and foster a pro-business environment in the Toledo Region. Tim has more than 10 years of legislative and public policy experience with the local, state and federal levels of government. |
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