Jessica Blough

A parklet and a smoker have created an uproar in Point Richmond, where pub owner says the city did an about-face on his permits

The Up & Under Pub & Grill has worked hard to distinguish itself for its smoked meat, pleasant outdoor dining experience and commitment to the community. But the Point Richmond restaurant stands to lose both its meat smoker and dining parklet later this year unless it can fix permitting issues that have gone unresolved between the business and the city since 2022.  It all started during the COVID-19 pandemic, when owner Nathan Trivers successfully petitioned the city for an outdoor…

ELECTION DAY COVERAGE: Richmond voters turn out for possible ‘historic’ outcome, with few lines at the polls

As polling wrapped up Tuesday night,  Richmond voters talked about what issues swayed their vote. Gloria Space said her concern was about local rent control getting more affordable, low-income housing. “They need to focus on the reform of landlords, so tenants are not treated any kind of way,” she said.   The need for affordable housing was reiterated by Philip Slater ,who voted in Marina Bay Harbor. “We have a lot of empty lots in this city, and a lot of…

San Pablo voters will decide if cannabis businesses can set up shop

A measure on the November ballot will ask San Pablo voters if they support a tax on marijuana businesses. If it passes, Measure M would prompt local lawmakers to begin the process of permitting cannabis businesses, which are currently illegal.  Several neighboring cities, including Richmond and El Cerrito, have passed similar measures and adopted ordinances allowing cannabis businesses. If Measure M passes, it will amend San Pablo’s business license tax ordinance to include an additional tax of up to 7%…