Malibu Chain Stores Face Uncertain Future

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — A grassroots effort to keep chain stores out of the city of Malibu is set for a critical vote Monday night.

KNX 1070's Bob Brill reports, the City Council is expected to vote on putting the "Your Malibu, Your Decision" initiative before voters this November.

Listen to Chain Stores Face Uncertain Future In Malibu

The ordinance (PDF) - which would allow residents to vote on any proposed development of chain stores and other commercial projects over 20,000 square feet - was introduced in March by a group led by filmmaker Rob Reiner.

If adopted, the measure would also impose a 30 percent limit on the total number of chain stores allowed to operate in Malibu shopping centers and other outlets.

Mayor Pro Tem John Sebert said the city's 13,000 residents are trying to keep Malibu friendly to mom-and-pop-style stores and ensure the city doesn't begin to resemble one of its famous neighbors to the east.

"Folks in Malibu do not want Malibu to become a shopping destination like a Beverly Hills," said Sebert.

An estimated 13 million visitors come to Malibu every year - about 1,000 visitors for every resident - according to Sebert.

It wasn't immediately clear what action the City Council would take, but Council members can approve the measure or put up the initiative on the November ballot.