SAN JOSE — Lighthouse Food Rescue and Distribution, a food bank serving residents in San Jose, is facing a city zoning enforcement dispute that could threaten its current operation. A violation notice warned pastor Ralph Olmos that the organization could be fined $20,000 per day if it does not remove food and the queue outside, which the city says is obstructing the sidewalk. Olmos said he was concerned the food bank could be penalized beginning Thursday, Oct. 8. He said Lighthouse has received similar notices before, including in 2022, when the violations were later waived. He is hoping for a similar resolution but said he has not received an update on permits. The food bank allows visitors to choose groceries, which Olmos said is intended to give people more choice and dignity. Andrea Wiley, who has experienced homelessness and relies on the food bank to help feed her family, described it as a welcoming place where people find both food and community. The dispute also centers on neighbors’ ability to use the sidewalk. In a joint statement, Mayor Matt Mahan and Councilmember Anthony Tordillos said city staff are working to identify a place where Lighthouse can continue serving residents while addressing access problems, particularly for older and disabled people. They said the city has offered to help cover relocation costs and that no fines have been assessed. Olmos said the operation now requires more than distributing food, citing challenges including parking and managing lines and traffic. A move could affect a neighborhood resource that has drawn long lines for years, while the city says a solution must also keep public walkways accessible.