TITLE:
title
CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE TO REQUIRE STAFFING AT SELF-SERVICE CHECKOUT STATIONS
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DEPARTMENT: CITY MANAGER'S OFFICE
PRESENTED BY: JAY BARKMAN, GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS MANAGER
CONTACT INFORMATION: JAY BARKMAN, GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS MANAGER (714) 754-5347
RECOMMENDATION:
recommendation
Staff recommends the City Council receive presentation and provide direction to staff on further consideration of an ordinance.
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BACKGROUND:
At the March 18, 2025, City Council Meeting, during public comment, a few speakers raised concerns about the theft and inadequate staffing levels involving self-checkout operations at grocery stores. Mayor Stephens and Mayor Pro Tem Chavez requested the City Manager agendize an item for City Council consideration, directing staff to provide research for potential development of an ordinance establishing staffing and operational standards for self-checkout operations at grocery retail stores. As part of the research and review, Mayor Stephens and Mayor Pro Tem Chavez requested that staff analyze the City of Long Beach's proposed ordinance related to the matter.
On August 12, 2025, the Long Beach City Council adopted an ordinance (Attachment 1) mandating staffing requirements and operational standards for self-checkout stations in grocery retail stores and retail drug establishments to proactively address retail theft and advance the preservation of public safety and welfare.
ANALYSIS:
In accordance with City Council Policy 300-6, proposals that are likely to involve a substantial commitment of staff time must be brought forward to the City Council for authorization. If a majority of the City Council supports the adoption of an ordinance mandating staffing and operational standards in grocery retail stores and retail drug establishments, staff will further explore operational standards in grocery stores, including the review of proposed and adopted regulations from other jurisdictions in the state and assess i...
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