In the upcoming El Cerrito City Council meeting, the focus turned to expanding cannabis opportunities as a revenue source. This comes on the heels of the establishment of two major dispensaries, NUG (opened in 2021) and STIIIZY (opened in 2023), which contribute community benefits fees and fund initiatives for local projects. While cannabis operations promise economic boosts, it’s essential to examine their broader impact, especially when comparing El Cerrito to its neighboring cities.
The Numbers: Cannabis, Massage Parlors, Liquor Stores, Restaurants, and Coffee Shops Per Capita
A deeper dive into business concentration highlights disparities between El Cerrito and its neighboring cities. Below is a breakdown of cannabis dispensaries, massage parlors, liquor stores, restaurants, and coffee shops:
El Cerrito:
• Cannabis Dispensaries: 2 (1 per 12,500 residents)
• Massage Parlors: 5 (1 per 5,000 residents)
• Liquor Stores: 12 (1 per 2,083 residents)
• Restaurants: 54 (1 per 463 residents)
• Coffee Shops: 5 (1 per 5,000 residents)
Albany:
• Cannabis Dispensaries: 0
• Massage Parlors: 2 (1 per 10,000 residents)
• Liquor Stores: 7 (1 per 2,857 residents)
• Restaurants: 78 (1 per 256 residents)
• Coffee Shops: 3 (1 per 6,666 residents)
Hercules:
• Cannabis Dispensaries: 0
• Massage Parlors: 1 (1 per 26,000 residents)
• Liquor Stores: 6 (1 per 4,333 residents)
• Restaurants: 38 (1 per 684 residents)
• Coffee Shops: 3 (1 per 8,666 residents)
What Does This Say About Financial Stability?
El Cerrito stands out for its higher concentration of cannabis dispensaries, massage parlors, and liquor stores compared to Albany and Hercules. These establishments often indicate short-term revenue strategies rather than the long-term stability seen in cities with diverse economic bases. Albany, for example, boasts nearly 50% more restaurants per capita and fewer liquor stores and massage parlors, reflecting a focus on community-oriented development.
Hercules takes a different approach with strict zoning, resulting in fewer liquor stores and massage parlors per capita. Its policies prioritize residential and family-friendly developments, showcasing a model for controlled growth.
Upcoming City Council Meeting: Attend and Get Involved
The next El Cerrito City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Interested parties are encouraged to attend to learn more and participate in discussions about the city’s cannabis policies and related initiatives.
Meeting Details:
Location: City Council Chambers, 10890 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito, CA 94530
Agenda Packet: El Cerrito City Council Agenda Packet
Remote Access: Closed captions and online streaming are available via Zoom.
Contact Your City Council Members
If you have questions or would like to share your input before the meeting, you can reach out to the current El Cerrito City Council members directly:
• Mayor Carolyn Wysinger: cwysinger@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us
• Mayor Pro Tem Gabe Quinto: gquinto@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us
• Councilmember William Ktsanes: wktsanes@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us
• Councilmember Lisa Motoyama: lmotoyama@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us
• Councilmember Rebecca Saltzman: rsaltzman@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us
A Balanced Path Forward
While cannabis businesses offer immediate revenue opportunities, El Cerrito should prioritize fostering a balance by encouraging more restaurants and coffee shops. These businesses drive long-term stability, create jobs, and enhance the quality of life. Lessons from Albany and Hercules demonstrate the value of strategic zoning and a focus on diverse, community-focused economic growth.
Conclusion: Investing in Community and Sustainability
El Cerrito has the opportunity to adjust its economic approach by reducing reliance on cannabis, liquor stores, and massage parlors while increasing investments in restaurants, coffee shops, and family-friendly amenities. By doing so, the city can foster a thriving and sustainable community that serves both economic and social interests.
For more information about the El Cerrito City Council and upcoming meetings, visit the official website: El Cerrito City Council.
If you have any further questions or comments, drop us a comment
El Cerrito Committee for Responsible Government (ECCRG) 