Huntington Beach Planning Commission Regular Meeting - March 22, 2022

The Huntington Beach Planning Commission held a regular meeting on Tuesday, March 22, 2022, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included a public hearing on a conditional use permit for an adult daycare center, a non-public hearing item on a general plan conformance for an easement vacation, and administrative updates. All voting members were present except Commissioner Rodriguez.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No public comments were made during the initial public comment period for non-agenda items.
• During the public hearing for the adult daycare item, Luis Gomez of Colorado Development, representing the applicant (Huntington Adult Daycare Center), introduced the project and answered commissioner questions. He stated the center will serve elderly and disabled adults, with staff-assisted drop-offs and security measures to prevent wandering. He acknowledged the property's exterior condition but said cleanup is planned.
• Susan, a neighboring business owner in the same shopping center, expressed concerns about trash in the back area and homeless activity, and asked about the source of clients. She noted the rest of the center is well-maintained by her landlord.

Discussion Items

Conditional Use Permit No. 21-025 (Adult Daycare)

• Proposal: To operate a 9,989 sq. ft. adult daycare center for elderly and adults with chronic medical, cognitive, or mental health conditions at 8909 Adams Avenue (northwest corner of Adams and Magnolia). Services include personal care, social services, transportation, meals, and therapeutic activities. Hours: Monday–Friday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., with extended and weekend hours as needed. Staff recommended approval, finding the project exempt from CEQA (Class 15301 – Existing Facilities) and meeting conditional use permit criteria.
• Commissioner questions: Commissioner Mandic asked about van parking, use of rear area, exterior improvements, and parking identification. Commissioner Scandura asked about drop-off procedures and security to prevent clients from wandering. Chair Perkins asked about loading docks and the operator's experience. Staff deferred operational questions to the applicant.
• Public testimony: The applicant (Luis Gomez) explained that 90% of clients are transported by center vans with staff assistance; remaining drop-offs involve a warm handoff. Security is via designated staff monitoring entrances. He stated the owner purchased the property 4–6 months ago and intends to repair the back access drive and maintain the property. Susan (neighboring business owner) voiced concerns about existing trash and homeless issues, and questioned client origins. The applicant later clarified clients come from local homes and senior apartments, aiming to maintain independence.
• Deliberation: Commissioners supported the land use as a needed service for an aging population. Commissioners Mandic and Scandura expressed concern about the property's exterior condition (trash, deterioration) but acknowledged code enforcement can address it. Chair Perkins noted the nuisance ordinance and provided a code enforcement hotline number (714-375-1551). The commission found the use appropriate and the applicant's operational plans adequate.
• Outcome: Motion by Commissioner Mandic to find the project exempt from CEQA (Section 15301) and approve Conditional Use Permit No. 21-025 with findings and conditions (Attachment No. 1). Seconded by Commissioner Scandura. The motion carried unanimously (5-0, Rodriguez absent). The decision is appealable to the City Council within 10 calendar days.

General Plan Conformance No. 21-002 (Street and Public Utility Easement Vacation at 102/104 Huntington Street)

• Proposal: To vacate a 134 sq. ft. undeveloped portion of an existing street and public utility easement along the east side of Huntington Street at the corner of Atlanta Avenue. The area is in the front yards of 102 and 104 Huntington Street. The existing 32-foot corner radius would reduce to a 20-foot radius following the vacation. Staff recommended approval, finding the vacation in conformance with the General Plan's land use, circulation, and coastal elements. The street was downgraded from major arterial to primary arterial, so the extra right-of-way is no longer needed.
• Commissioner questions: Commissioner Mandic asked about drainage and existing improvements. Staff clarified all sidewalk and curb improvements are already in place; the vacation tightens an imaginary radius line to match existing infrastructure. Chair Perkins asked about the effect of street designation on the radius and the nature of easements. Staff explained that the street's traffic volumes support the downgrade, and the easement vacation returns control to the property owner. If future development requires right-of-way, the city could request a new easement.
• Public testimony: None.
• Deliberation: Commissioners supported the item. Commissioner Ray noted it will allow the homeowner to use the land more fully (e.g., extend landscaping or wall). Chair Perkins remarked the easement is no longer practical given existing utility poles.
• Outcome: Motion by Commissioner Scandura to find the project categorically exempt from CEQA (City Council Resolution 4501, Class 5) and adopt Resolution No. 1720 approving General Plan Conformance No. 21-002. Seconded by Commissioner Mandic. The motion carried unanimously (5-0, Rodriguez absent). The decision is appealable to the City Council within 10 calendar days.

Planning Items & Commissioner Comments

• Staff reported that at the next City Council meeting, a zoning text amendment for the Beach Ender Corridor Specific Plan (medical office/veterinary clinic) recommended by the commission will be considered. The next Planning Commission meeting on April 12, 2022, will include a zoning text amendment relating to minor accessory structures.
• Commissioners noted their attendance at the Planning Commissioners Academy (San Ramon), finding it educational on state housing laws. They encouraged continued city funding for future commissioner attendance.

Key Outcomes

• Conditional Use Permit for Adult Daycare: Approved unanimously (5-0) with CEQA exemption.
• General Plan Conformance for Easement Vacation: Approved unanimously (5-0) with CEQA exemption and adoption of Resolution No. 1720.
• All decisions are final unless appealed to the City Council within 10 calendar days.