Proposal:

The Land Development Code does not address call centers or nicotine dispensing device businesses in the Downtown.  They are neither permitted nor prohibited, but may be requested by a conditional use application.  City Council directed Staff to prepare an amendment to prohibit call centers. They are offices set up to receive or transmit large volumes of requests by phone or computer often including tele marketing and debt collection and other customer services.  Nicotine dispensing device businesses sell or manufacture electronic cigarettes and pipes and include “vaping” and “hookah”.  There have been several inquiries from prospective businesses considering locating in the Downtown.   

As the City is working to create an economically vibrant and active Downtown, call centers and nicotine dispensing device businesses are inappropriate, due to their real or perceived blighting effect. Such uses tend to pay low wages, invest minimally in property, and generate undesirable loitering activity.  They may degrade the appearance of businesses which can devalue property.

The proposed ordinance will prohibit call centers and nicotine dispensing device businesses in the Downtown.  It also clarifies that the drug paraphernalia, which is prohibited from being sold in the Downtown, is defined based on Florida Statute.

The proposed new language is shown with underlining and deleted language is shown with strikethrough. 

Compatibility with Comprehensive Plan:

The proposal is consistent with the following Comprehensive Plan objectives and policies:

• Future Land Use Element Policy 1.1.2 - To implement this Comprehensive Plan, the City shall continue to implement land development regulations that contain specific and detailed provisions…

• FLU Table 1.1.3 – The purpose of the Downtown Category is to encourage and maintain the redevelopment of Downtown as the financial, commercial, governmental, cultural and recreational center of West Pasco through continued enhancement to its multi-modal accessibility, appearance, historic resources, utilization and facilities.

• Future Land Use Element Objective 1.3 - Design commercial development that is compatible with environmental and economic resources, enhances access and circulation, results in a positive and attractive built environment and will be in keeping with the needs and character of the community.

• Future Land Use Element Policy 1.3.2 - The City shall promote commercial development that serves to maintain or enhance the economic health of the City, and to increase job opportunities, per capita income and convenience for residents.