An East San Jose convenience store’s simple application for a permit to sell alcohol has spiraled into a tangled knot of controversy and accusations of foul play.
The San Jose City Council on Tuesday denied a conditional use permit that would have allowed Fast Mart, a small store at 1484 S. White Road, to sell alcohol alongside its groceries and snacks.
The council’s unanimous vote came after a 90-minute hearing in which people associated with Fast Mart were accused of various questionable dealings including coercion and intimidation, while the store’s representative alluded to residents being tricked into opposing the permit.
The decision by the council overturned a Sept. 27 San Jose Planning Commission approval of the permit application from the store’s owner, Jitender Grewal. The store, under previous ownership, gained a reputation for selling alcohol to minors, and lost its state liquor license.
Grewal said previously he is committed to ensuring the store is run responsibly by instituting a host of security measures and policies. He said he needs the alcohol sales to help compete with other businesses.