The La Habra City Council is taking significant steps to address the growing number of smoke shops in the city. During a recent meeting, council members discussed the initiation of amendments to the La Habra Municipal Code aimed at regulating these establishments. A key proposal is to establish a temporary moratorium on new smoke shops, a move prompted by rising concerns over public health and safety.

City officials reported that La Habra currently has 68 licensed tobacco retailers, with about 20 classified as smoke shops. Notably, the number of smoke shops has surged in recent years, with 14 new establishments opening in just the last five years. This increase has raised alarms among council members, who are worried about the potential impact on youth tobacco use and community well-being.

Susan Kim, the Director of Community and Economic Development, outlined the options available for regulation, including the proposed moratorium, which would temporarily halt the establishment of new smoke shops while the city develops more comprehensive regulations. The council emphasized the need for a careful approach that does not unfairly target existing businesses but aims to prevent further proliferation of smoke shops.

The council's discussions also highlighted the importance of community input, with public comments expected to play a crucial role in shaping the final regulations. The proposed moratorium would require a four-fifths vote from the council and is intended to provide time for thorough research and consideration of the best regulatory framework.

As the city moves forward, the council plans to engage with the Planning Commission and notify current tobacco retailers about the proposed changes. The urgency of the situation reflects a growing recognition of the need to balance business interests with public health priorities in La Habra.