This scenic Russian River Valley enclave has long strived to foster a supportive community of local businesses by making it harder for big chain stores to move in.
In 2018, Sebastopol leaders established certain chain businesses downtown, particularly restaurants and hotels.
But this month, one of the nation’s largest pizza chains is scheduled to open in that very downtown area, leaving many local residents concerned and surprised.
As first reported, city officials recently admitted that the new Little Caesars restaurant was somehow approved in error. Approval of the chain’s new franchise appears to have been granted even though it directly conflicts with the city’s ban on “general” or chain restaurants downtown.
In a statement, Sebastopol city officials acknowledged the mistake but said it was too late to change course on the Little Caesars project. The city did not immediately respond to questions about how the error could affect future enforcement of the ban.
“The City regrets this oversight, accepts full accountability for the error, and remains committed to transparency, accountability, and consistent implementation of City policies and procedures,” the statement said. “We appreciate the community’s understanding and patience as we strengthen our processes.”
The statement did not say how the project was incorrectly approved, but said city officials have already begun “a comprehensive review of the permitting process to determine the cause and take corrective action.”
In addition to banning certain chain stores in the downtown area, Sebastopol’s zoning law for commercial areas outside the downtown area specifically regulates and requires additional permits for “formula businesses,” which are chain businesses with 25 or more locations nationwide. Detroit-based Little Caesars Enterprises, Inc. was founded in 1959 as a single family-owned restaurant and has expanded dramatically to include locations in all 50 states and 30 countries.
The Little Caesars planned for Sebastopol at 231 Petaluma Street is expected to open this week, the Press Democrat reported.
