PORT TOWNSEND — The City Council’s ordinance banning chain stores from its historical districts takes effect immediately after a 5-2 vote to waive council rules for a temporary law.
Temporary laws are normally reviewed during at least two council readings, but the chain store ordinance passed after only one.
Approval came after about 20 residents expressed strong support and the council majority agreed to take quick action.
“I wanted to move it forward,” said Mayor Catharine Robinson, explaining her vote in favor of waiving the council rule about additional readings.
The new law limits corporate establishments to city commercial zones on Sims Way, south of the ferry terminal.
According to city regulations, the ordinance must next go to a public hearing within 60 days, Robinson said. If at that hearing the law is not repealed, it is effective for another six months.
About 75 residents filled the council meeting room Monday night, showing up to express their support for the ordinance that would limit the location of corporate establishments.
“This is another demonstration of how this City Council is working with the citizens to protect the character of this town, according to the comprehensive plan,” said Councilman Kees Kolff.
Medlicott only no vote
The council voted 6-1 to pass the “formula store” ordinance, with Councilor Laurie Medlicott casting the only no vote because she did not want to make a rushed decision.
Councilman Geoff Masci initially voted against making it an urgent ordinance, but favored passing the legislation during the final vote.
“America is becoming more and more ugly, and the ordinance is where we can defend ourselves from it a little,” Masci said.
“It’s an interim ordinance. In the next couple of months, I will be working on making it fair. For example, the 50 lineal feet limitation is absurd.”