Supervisors Discuss Dropping Economic Analysis Requirement For “Big Box” Stores

Sonora, CA — The Tuolumne County Board of Supervisors discussed on Tuesday whether to make amendments to the current zoning ordinance regarding "big box" retail stores.

A major aspect would be to drop the requirement that an economic analysis be included in the building application.

Supervisor Dick Pland voiced support saying, “I don’t think it is government’s job to pick winners and losers.”

“I don’t think any level of government, and in particularly county government, should be in that position,” he added.

The economic analysis looks at potential positive and negative effects on the local economy.

Supervisors Liz Bass and John Gray indicated that they are also in favor of making the proposed changes to the ordinance code.

Supervisors Teri Murrison and Paulo Maffei spoke against making changes at this time. A major concern was that they would like to hear the opinion of new JPA Economic Development Director Larry Cope before a decision is finalized. Cope will not step into his new role until April 6th

The Supervisors are scheduled to take an official vote during the first meeting in April.

Written by bjhansen@mlode.com