The law requires new restaurants and encourages existing restaurants to participate in a Healthy Eating Options Program, which involves offering a minimum number of healthy eating menu options. Restaurants that choose to offer more healthy eating menu options than the minimum, can qualify for award recognition.
See references to "promote healthy eating options" and " "reduce health issues related to unhealthy eating." § 14-29-020.
Although a direct mention of promoting the community's economy is not mentioned, see reference to "healthy eating decisions made by businesses in the City can result in significant cost savings to the residents…" §14-29-020.
"The City finds that promoting healthy eating options at new and existing restaurants is an effective way to reduce health issues related to unhealthy eating habits, such as diabetes, heart disease, and being overweight." § 14-29.020.
The City wants to encourage healthy eating decisions, by providing healthy options at restaurants and to lead by example through offering healthy eating options in City-sponsored programs and events. § 14-29.020.
§ 14-29.030
Existing restaurants apply to participate in the Health Eating Options Program with the Community Development Department. Applicants for new restaurants must participate in the program by meeting certain criteria to obtain their building permits; the building permit process is described elsewhere in the Zoning Code. § 14-23.050.
Applicants for a new restaurant or significat remodels can be denied a building permit, if they do not comply with this law. § 14-29.050.
This policy creates a new program, but it is unclear if operating and enforcing the program will involve additional staff being hired.
This policy is located in Watsonville, California Municipal Code, Title 14 - Zoning, Chapter 14-29 - Healthy Eating Options. History: § 1, Ord. 1266-10.