Huntington Beach Planning Commission Meeting – July 27, 2021

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission met on July 27, 2021, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The commission considered two public hearing items: an appeal to allow hard alcohol sales at a Chevron convenience market, and a conditional use permit for a new G&M Oil service station. After extensive public testimony and deliberation, the appeal for the Chevron was denied, and the service station permit was approved with modifications.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Chevron Convenience Market Appeal: Over 90 letters of opposition were submitted to the Zoning Administrator, and 67 letters were received for this meeting. Residents expressed strong opposition, citing safety concerns, proximity to residences, a school, and the beach, potential for increased crime, noise, litter, and negative impact on community character. Specific speakers included:
  • Sherry Ilson (applicant representative): stated the owner invested $750,000 in improvements, has had no violations, and the request is for a small amount of premium spirits stored behind the counter; argued they deserve the privilege.
  • Ross De La Haye (resident since 1965): emphasized the neighborhood character and safety concerns.
  • Tariq Shawwa (resident, 17 years): called the proposal a safety risk and noted flawed rationale from staff.
  • Bruce Reeser: opposed hard liquor sales in a residential area.
  • Wilson Turner: cited studies linking alcohol outlet density to crime, accidents, and domestic violence; argued no community need.
  • Larry Weisenthal (42-year resident): criticized the notification process and the zoning administrator's handling.
  • Suzanne Tamaru: highlighted proximity to an elementary school and detrimental impacts.
  • Chris Burris: alleged deceptive notices and the owner's absence; noted Google ads already showing extended hours.
• G&M Oil Service Station: One speaker, Carl Hoy (applicant and project architect), stated full compliance with conditions and that the owner opposes hard liquor.

Discussion Items

1. Appeal 21-543: Chevron Convenience Market (Denied)

The request was to amend Conditional Use Permit No. 15-055 to allow sale of distilled spirits (Type 21 ABC license) at a 1,630 sq. ft. convenience market at 16921 Algonquin Street. The appeal was filed by Councilmember Eric Peterson. Staff recommended approval. Commissioners questioned staff about fire lanes, primary use (gas station vs. convenience market), and notice adequacy. After public hearing, commissioners expressed concerns: no buffer between gas station and residences, location on route to the beach, proximity to an elementary school, only one other gas station in the city sells hard alcohol, and the proposal did not satisfy findings for a conditional use permit. Commissioners Perkins, Rodriguez, Acosta-Galvan, Mandic, and Ray all opposed. Commissioner Scandura recused himself due to a conflict of interest. A motion to deny passed 5-0-1.

2. Conditional Use Permit 21-495: G&M Oil Service Station (Approved)

Request to construct a new gas station on a substandard lot (22,309 sq. ft., 191 sq. ft. less than the minimum 22,500 sq. ft.) at 14972 Springdale Street. The development includes four fueling pumps, a 2,314 sq. ft. canopy, underground storage, a 2,182 sq. ft. retail store with beer and wine sales (Type 20 ABC license), 24-hour operation, and ancillary improvements. The site was vacant for approximately 20 years; environmental remediation was completed in 2020. Staff supported the project, noting it would improve the intersection by consolidating driveways. The applicant agreed to all conditions, including fire department requirements. Commissioners found the use appropriate, well-buffered from residences, and providing a needed service. Commissioner Acosta-Galvan dissented. Motion to approve with modified condition 1A (to reference the fire compliance exhibit dated June 16, 2021) passed 5-1.

Key Outcomes

• Chevron Appeal Denied: The commission denied Entitlement Plan Amendment 21-002, finding that allowing distilled spirits would be detrimental to the general welfare of nearby residents, incompatible with the area, and not meeting local needs. Vote: 5 in favor (denial), 0 opposed, 1 recusal. The decision is appealable to the City Council within 10 calendar days.
• G&M Oil Service Station Approved: Conditional Use Permit 20-015 was approved with suggested findings and conditions, including the modification of condition 1A. Vote: 5 in favor, 1 opposed. Appealable within 10 days.
• Next Meeting: The next planning commission meeting is scheduled for August 10, 2021, with a study session on affordable housing zoning and public hearings on an entitlement plan amendment for Killarney's downtown and a zoning text amendment for signs on electric vehicle charging stations.