Anaheim May Ban New Gas Stations Temporarily

Anaheim could join other Southland cities taking drastic steps to control growth if city officials adopt a controversial ordinance that would temporarily ban new gas stations.

“Generally, cities with fewer stations have higher property values,” Mayor Tom Daly said after introducing the plan at this week’s City Council meeting.

The measure was suggested by Councilman Frank Feldhaus, who expressed concern about a proliferation of gas stations in Anaheim. If more are built, he said, that could blight the landscape and undermine residents’ quality of life.

The council is scheduled to vote on the issue Jan. 26.

Other Orange County cities recently have taken similar action to limit growth. San Juan Capistrano, for example, has temporarily banned new check-cashing establishments, drive-thru fast-food restaurants and gas stations with mini-markets.

Anaheim’s plan drew immediate opposition from gasoline dealers, who argued that such a moratorium would be an unnecessary deterrent to business, and from some city officials.

“I think it’s a very drastic measure--one that you use very sparingly and with much consideration,” Councilwoman Shirley McCracken said. “I’m not convinced that it’s a tool we ought to use.”

Anaheim has about 79 gas stations, according to the city’s planning staff, and applications pending for six more. In addition, planning staffers said, they have identified 14 major intersections where service stations are likely to be built.

Under the proposed ordinance, no new station applications would be accepted and all pending ones would be tabled for 45 days while city officials explore the issue. For example, officials said they might consider restricting locations at which gas stations could be built.

David Ross, a gas station consultant, told the council: “My concern is not the regulation, but a moratorium . . . while regulations are being studied.”

Exemptions would include service stations lawfully existing on the date--30 days after its enactment--that the moratorium became effective. Service stations already under construction with valid city building permits would also be exempt, as well as those approved by the council before the moratorium.