City of Gilroy City Council Meeting | June 1, 2026 | 5:00 PM

The City of Gilroy held a special City Council meeting on June 1, 2026, which included significant discussions on regulatory and enforcement matters related to tobacco retailers and smoke shops. The council reviewed an appeal concerning the Rock Zone business license and tobacco retailer permit, where violations involving the sale of controlled substances and tobacco products were found. The hearing officer had imposed a six-month suspension of the tobacco retailer permit, but the council voted to deny the appeal and extend the suspension to one year. Additionally, the council considered amendments to the zoning code to define and regulate smoke shops, but ultimately tabled the item for further review. The meeting also addressed proposed enhancements to tobacco retailer permit enforcement, including expanded definitions of youth-oriented facilities and stronger penalties for violations. Other agenda items included discussions on reopening certain park parking lots, campaign finance laws related to upcoming district-based elections, and a proposed 0.25% public safety sales tax measure for the November 2026 ballot. The sales tax measure discussion highlighted the city's ongoing public safety funding challenges, with council members divided on whether to place the measure on the ballot. The meeting concluded with announcements of upcoming closed sessions on labor negotiations and public employee appointments.