Fairfax passes ‘formula retail’ moratorium

Fairfax is temporarily banning new “formula retail” stores.

By a 4-1 vote, the Town Council passed an urgency ordinance on Wednesday imposing an immediate 45-day moratorium on issuing permits for chain stores and franchises.

The action was triggered by a Planning Commission hearing on Feb. 19, when staff proposed to update the zoning to exclude large chains but allow 13 “formula” businesses in four commercial corridors. The proposal drew stiff opposition.

“No one at that hearing...