The chamber has opposed this initiative from early on due to its implementation of "ballot-box zoning" and its attack on private property rights. The council had the option of adopting SOAR as ordinance, placing it on the November ballot, or ordering a 30 day impact study before formally placing the initiative on the ballot.
Ashton requested the option of the 30 day study. In addressing the council, he said "With the unknown financial impacts to the City of Oceanside, we request that City staff, with the help of outside consultants, prepare a 30 day study on the economic impacts of SOAR so our community will have true insight as to what they are voting on."
In a separate issue, the council voted to approve the Chamber supported Fairfield Inn project slated for Oceanside Blvd., just west of I-5. Read Fairfield Story.