The push to allow neighborhood stores and cafes across Washington
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Washington legislators are weighing a proposal that would allow corner stores and cafes in all residential neighborhoods.
Why it matters: Supporters say having markets and cafes tucked into neighborhoods makes cities more friendly and walkable. But local zoning rules often ban such businesses in residential zones.
What's inside: House Bill 1175 would force cities and towns to allow neighborhood stores and neighborhood cafes in any area zoned for housing.
- Cafes that serve alcohol would also have to serve food under the bill.
- Cities would be able to enact rules around parking, hours of operation, and maximum square footage but would have to allow the businesses to remain open for at least 12 hours per day.
What they're saying: "This bill creates community and it brings people together," state Rep. Mark Klicker (R-Walla Walla), the bill's lead sponsor, said during a committee hearing last month.
- He added that in Europe, these types of businesses are "everywhere."
Zoom in: Right now, Seattle doesn't allow neighborhood stores and cafes in most areas zoned for housing.
- While Mayor Bruce Harrell has proposed a zoning plan that would allow such shops in more areas of the city, his proposal has yet to win the approval of the Seattle City Council.
Caveat: A few neighborhood businesses in Seattle — including Volunteer Park Cafe in Capitol Hill, Irwin's Neighborhood Bakery and Cafe in Wallingford, and Seven Coffee Roasters in Ravenna — predate the city's zoning laws, per the Seattle Times.
- But the city's current rules prevent new businesses from popping up in those types of locations.
Between the lines: City officials often don't like when state lawmakers override local decision-making, "so there's going to be a little grumbling" over the legislation, Carl Schroeder, a lobbyist for the Association of Washington Cities, said during last month's hearing.
- The organization isn't opposing the measure, however.
What's next: HB 1175 was voted out of the House Local Government Committee late last month and is now before the House Appropriations Committee.
- It still must pass the full House and Senate before it can become law.