Granny's Grocery, a beloved cornerstone of our Hermosa Beach community, is facing an unjust financial burden. The Hermosa Beach City Council has proposed a right-of-way fee for the small waiting area in front of the store that threatens to undermine the operations of this vital small business. Granny's Grocery not only provides essential goods to our neighborhood but also contributes to the community's upkeep by helping maintain the area around the store. 

For years, Granny's has voluntarily helped maintain the surrounding area through power washing, trash collection, and more. In doing so, it has saved the city resources while ensuring a cleaner, nicer environment for locals and visitors alike. Imposing this fee disrespects the goodwill and community spirit Granny's embodies.

We understand the importance of city revenues, but the new fee seems unnecessary, especially when considering how other areas of Hermosa Beach, such as downtown, benefit from city-funded maintenance and amenities. Businesses like El Torasco, Sol Baby, Green Store… just to name a few… enjoy trashcans, benches, and/or sidewalk cleaning services provided by public funds. These contributions enhance public spaces, encourage patronage, and ultimately support the local economy.

Furthermore, Grannys is not a dining establishment but rather a grocery store with to go food options.  The patio in front of Granny’s is used for customers to wait (similar to how customers wait on the sidewalk at other local establishments like Offset Coffee, Creamy Boys, etc.) and is not fenced in or enclosed. 

Rather than placing an undue burden on Granny's Grocery, we urge the City Council to either waive the proposed fee or, alternatively, take over maintenance responsibilities in front of Granny's Grocery as part of fostering fairness and community support.  Rationale for this request includes: 

1.  Small Business Support: Granny's Grocery is a cherished, local, historic business. Imposing high fees creates financial hardship that threatens its continued operation.
2. Local Character: Maintaining the small-town charm of Hermosa Beach is a priority for residents. Small businesses, not fees, define our community.
3. Economic Impact: Excessive fees can force businesses to pass costs to residents or reduce staff
4. Public Waiting Space: This is not a dining deck or formal enclosed area to eat at. Rather it is a large entry way that is sometimes used for waiting for sandwiches or coffee with provided shade for the community. 

Let’s preserve the vibrant spirit of Hermosa Beach by encouraging local businesses to thrive without being encumbered by unjust fees. Sign this petition to ask the Hermosa Beach City Council to reconsider their decision and work collaboratively with Granny's Grocery for the betterment of our community.