In September the Shreveport City Council enacted a comprehensive ordinance to regulate vape shops and vape shop employees. The ordinance applies to retailers who derive more than 25% of retail sales from vape products.
As written, this standard is unenforceable. Sales tax revenues are reported on gross sales with NO breakdown on types of sales. Councilmen Alan Jackson and Grayson Boucher both voted for the ordinance but expressed concern on its enforceability,
A suggestion was made to use a “shelf space” standard to determine application of the ordinance. Certainly, a more specific and enforceable measure is needed.
At the Tuesday Public Safety Committee meeting SPAR director Shelly Ragle explained the process of obtaining permits to utilize city buildings and parks for special events. She outlined the meetings where the applications were reviewed and standards set for security, EMS, liability insurance etc. She suggested that the permitting ordinance be amended to require the attendance of the permit applicant at these meetings.
Council members Tabatha Taylor and Gary Brooks echoed Ragle’s comments on the attendance requirement. Both stated this would eliminate many unfounded complaints they receive concerning the requirements placed on event organizers. An amendment to this ordinance would certainly be in the best interests of all concerned.