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2520 Venture Oaks Way, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95833 | (916)646-5999 | cfca.energy June 5th, 2026 Redwood City City Council 1017 Middlefield Rd. Redwood City, California 94063 RE: Comments Regarding Proposed Adoption of San Mateo County Tobacco Ordinance Honorable Mayor and members of City Council, The California Fuels & Convenience Alliance (CFCA) represents independent gas station and convenience store operators across the state, an industry of over 12,000 locations who are a majority family-owned and operated establishments. We appreciate the opportunity to provide input as Redwood City considers potential tobacco policy options and respectfully urge City Council to reconsider adopting San Mateo County’s tobacco retailer ordinance. While we understand City Council’s direction to adopt the County ordinance in the interests of maintaining strong tobacco enforcement, we must humbly share some prevalent concerns about its impact on local convenience stores. These small “mom-and-pop” businesses aren’t just single- product retailers in either fuel or tobacco, but rather quintessential establishments that supply neighborhoods with everyday goods and services. Essential products ranging from personal hygiene items to everyday grocery foods can be found on the shelves of these stores, and their contributions to the community don’t just stop there. Local gas stations and convenience stores play a vital role in providing a source of employment for local residents, as well as a significant source of sales and tax revenue generation. It is also not uncommon for these cornerstone establishments to participate in local charity events and drives, taking a more active role in giving back to the communities that they serve. When reviewing potential policy options, a policy approach like San Mateo County’s tobacco ordinance carries an increased probability of unintended consequences for Redwood City’s small businesses. The ordinance indiscriminately subjects all tobacco retailers to proximity requirements from youth-oriented facilities and other retailers which, when paired with a prohibition of tobacco retailer license transferring, risks undermining the financial and labor investments made by local business owners in their stores. Under the County’s ordinance, a convenience store operator who has invested in the community for decades could have their tobacco retailer license jeopardized if a youth-oriented facility, such as a daycare center or tutoring facility, decides to establish operations within 1000 feet of their business. Despite tobacco not being a convenience store’s primary source of income, tobacco sales can still account for up to 35% of in-store revenue, providing a crucial lifeline that can help business