Vending Machine Ban Lacks Support

A proposal to restrict beverage vending machines in front of stores has generated little support among City Council members.

When the council meets tonight, it will consider watering down an earlier recommendation from the city’s planning commissioners that would ban the vending machines from outside stores.

As proposed, the ordinance would require that beverage machines be placed inside stores, or that an enclave be built around them if they remain outside.

City Councilwoman Barbra Williamson championed the ban because she feels the vending machines are an eyesore when lined up alongside each other.

“Residents shouldn’t have to look at them,” she said.

Other council members, however, say the city government would be going too far in its efforts to improve city aesthetics.

“I think we are pushing the issue too far,” Councilman Paul Miller said. “I think we ought to leave the machines alone.”

Councilmen Glen Becerra and Steve Sojka said they would like to see a compromise. Instead of banishing the machines, Sojka and Becerra said they prefer alternatives such as limiting how many can be placed in front of a store.

“It is our job to improve our quality of life,” Sojka said. “But to what extent?”

Todd Priest, director of local government relations for the California Grocers Assn., opposes the strict rule.

“We believe the council should limit the number of machines and establish guidelines to control the size of them,” he said.