HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC Packet_2023_12_18CITY OF SEAL BEACH
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA
18 December 2023 — 7:00 PM
City Council Chambers
211 Eighth Street
Seal Beach, CA 90740
District 1 — Calvin Mingione
District 2 — Dominic Massetti
District 3 — Richard Coles – Vice Chair
District 4 — Patty Campbell – Chair
District 5 — Margo Wheeler
Department of Community Development
Alexa Smittle, Community Development Director
Shaun Temple, Planning Manager
Marco Cuevas, Jr., Associate Planner
Samuel Funes, Assistant Planner
Amy Greyson, Senior Assistant City Attorney
•City Hall office hours are 8:00 a. m. to 5:00 p. m. Monday through Friday. Closed noon to
1:00 p.m.
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assistance to attend this meeting please telephone the City Clerk' s Office at least 48
hours in advance of the meeting at (562) 431-2527.
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cost of $15 per DVD. Telephone: (562) 596 -1404.
•Copies of staff reports and/or written materials on each agenda item are available for
public inspection in City libraries or on the City website
at: https://www.sealbeachca.gov/Government/Agendas-Notices-Meeting-
Videos/Council-Commission-Meetings
CALL TO ORDER
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
At this time members of the public may address the Planning Commission regarding
any items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Commission. Pursuant to the
Brown Act, the Commission cannot discuss or take action on any items not on the
agenda unless authorized by law. Those members of the public wishing to speak are
asked to come forward to the microphone and state their name for the record. All
speakers will be limited to a period of 5 minutes.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
By Motion of the Planning Commission this is the time to notify the public of any
changes to the agenda, re- arrange the order of the agenda, and provide an opportunity
for any member of the Planning Commission or staff to request an item be removed
from the Consent Calendar for separate action.
CONSENT CALENDAR
A.Approval of the September 18, 2023 Planning Commission Minutes
CONTINUED ITEMS
SCHEDULED MATTERS
NEW BUSINESS
B.CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 23-4
VARIANCE 23-1
4000 Lampson Avenue
Applicant: Steve Rawlings/UP2 Holdings, LLC
Request: For a Conditional Use Permit (CUP 23-4) to allow the sale of beer and
wine (ABC Type 21 alcohol license) for off-site consumption in conjunction with an
existing convenience store within the General Commercial (CG) Zoned Area and to
allow a reduction in the required distance of 100 feet from residences; and Request
for a Variance (VAR 23-1) to allow a reduction in the required 1000 feet from parks
on a commercial property located at 4000 Lampson Avenue in the the General
Commercial (CG) Zoned Area
Recommendation: After conducting the Public Hearing, staff recommends that the
Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 23-15 APPROVING Conditional Use
Permit 23-4 with conditions and adopt Resolution No. 23-16, APPROVING Variance
23-1 with conditions and finding the project EXEMPT from the California
Environmental Quality Act.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
DIRECTOR'S REPORT
COMMISSION CONCERNS
ADJOURNMENT
Adjourn the Planning Commission to Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
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PLANNING COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
DATE:December 18, 2023
TO:Planning Commission
THRU:Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk
FROM:Alexa Smittle, Community Development Director
SUBJECT:Approval of the September 18, 2023 Planning Commission
Minutes
RECOMMENDATION:Approve the minutes of the Planning Commission meeting
held on September 18, 2023
Prepared by: Approved by:
Gloria D. Harper Alexa Smittle
Gloria D. Harper Alexa Smittle
City Clerk Community Development Director
Attachments:
1. September 18, 2023 Planning Commission Minutes
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City of Seal Beach – Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
September 18, 2023
Chair Campbell called the Planning Commission meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Commissioner Mingione led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Present: Commissioners: Mingione, Campbell, Massetti
Absent: Wheeler, Coles
Staff Present: Amy Greyson, Senior City Attorney
Alexa Smittle, Community Development Director
Shaun Temple, Planning Manager
Marco Cuevas, Jr., Associate Planner
Samuel Funes, Assistant Planner
Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
By Motion of the Planning Commission this is the time to notify the public of any changes
to the agenda, re- arrange the order of the agenda, and provide an opportunity for any
member of the Planning Commission or staff to request an item be removed from the
Consent Calendar for separate action and approve the excused absence of Vice Chair
Coles and Commissioner Wheeler from tonight’s meeting.
Motion by Commissioner Massetti, second by Commissioner Mingione to approve the
agenda.
AYES: Campbell, Mingione, Massetti
NOES: None
ABSENT: Coles, Wheeler
ABSTAIN: None
Motion Carried.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
Chair Campbell opened public communications. Speakers: None. Chair Campbell closed
public communications.
City Clerk Harper announced that no emailed comments were received after posting the
agenda.
CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Approval of the September 5, 2023, Planning Commission Minutes
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Motion by Commissioner Wheeler, second by Vice Chair Coles to approve the consent
calendar.
AYES: Campbell, Mingione, Massetti
NOES: None
ABSENT: Coles, Wheeler
ABSTAIN: None
Motion Carried.
PUBLIC HEARING
B. Minor Use Permit 23-6
12410-A Seal Beach Boulevard
Applicant: Ranch Town Center LLC/Hal Hamilton
Request: For a Minor Use Permit (MUP 23-6) to allow the operation of a 2,400 square
foot animal hospital located in the General Commercial (GC) zoning area.
Recommendation: After conducting the Public Hearing, staff recommends that the
Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 23-13, APPROVING Minor Use Permit
23-6 with Conditions and finding the project EXEMPT from the California Environmental
Quality Act.
Planning Manager Temple provided a comprehensive staff report. Commissioner’s
questions were addressed.
Chair Campbell opened the public hearing. Speaker: Hal Hamilton. Chair Campbell closed
the public hearing.
Motion by Commissioner Mingione, second by Commissioner Massetti that the Planning
Commission adopt Resolution No. 23-13, APPROVING Minor Use Permit 23-6 with
Conditions and find the project EXEMPT from the California Environmental Quality Act.
AYES: Mingione, Campbell, Massetti
NOES: None
ABSENT: Wheeler, Coles
ABSTAIN: None
Motion Carried
Senior City Attorney Greyson noted that there is a 10-day appeal period that starts
September 19, 2023.
CONTINUED ITEM(S) - None
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SCHEDULED MATTERS - None
NEW BUSINESS - None
DIRECTOR’S REPORT – There was no Director’s Report.
COMMISSION CONCERNS – There were no Commission Concerns.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Campbell adjourned the Planning Commission meeting at 7:10 p.m. to Monday,
October 2, 2023, at 7:00 p.m.
___________________________
Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk
Approved: _______________________
Patricia Campbell, Chair
Attest: ____________________________
Gloria D. Harper, City Clerk
PLANNING COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
DATE:December 18, 2023
TO:Planning Commission
THRU:Alexa Smittle, Community Development Director
FROM:Marco Cuevas Jr., Associate Planner
SUBJECT:Request for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP 23-4) to allow the sale
of beer and wine (ABC Type 20 alcohol license) for off-site
consumption, and to reduce the required distance of 100 feet from
residences for the sale of beer and wine under City Council Policy
600-1, in conjunction with an existing convenience store within
the General Commercial (CG) Zoned Area; and
Request for a Variance (VAR 23-1) to allow a reduction in the
required distance of 1,000 feet from parks for the sale of beer and
wine (ABC Type 20 alcohol license) for offisite consumption in
conjunction with an existing convenience store of an automobile
service station on a property located within the General
Commercial (CG) Zoned area.
LOCATION:4000 Lampson Avenue
APPLICANT:Steve Rawlings
RECOMMENDATION:After conducting the Public Hearing, staff recommends that the
Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 23-15 APPROVING
Conditional Use Permit 23-4 with conditions and adopt Resolution
No. 23-16, APPROVING Variance 23-1 with conditions and
finding the project EXEMPT from the California Environmental
Quality Act.
GENERAL PLAN
DESIGNATION:
SERVICE COMMERCIAL
ZONE:GC (GENERAL COMMERCIAL)
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SITE DESCRIPTION:ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NUMBER: 217-231-01
LOT AREA: 22,133 SQ. FT.
GROSS FLOOR AREA: 2,121 SQ. FT.
SURROUNDING PROPERTIES:
North: Residential Medium Density (RMD-18) and
Recreation/Golf (RG)
South: Open Space Parks and Recreation (OS-PR)
East: Residential Medium Density (RMD-18)
West: Recreation/Golf (RG)
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
This project is determined to be a Class 1 (Existing Facility) Categorical Exemption
pursuant to Section 15301, of the Guidelines for the California Environmental Quality Act
(Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.) for permitting the sale of beer and wine
within an existing gas station convenience store with no proposed development.
LEGAL NOTIFICATION
The legal notice of this hearing was published in the Seal Beach Sun Newspaper on
December 7, 2023, and mailed to property owners and occupants within a 500-foot radius
of the subject property on December 7, 2023, with affidavits of publishing and mailing on
file.
VICINITY MAP: AERIAL MAP:
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ANALYSIS
The subject property at 4000 Lampson Avenue is located within the General Commercial
(GC) zone. The property operates as an automotive service station with three service
bays and a 1,275 square foot convenience store. The land area of the site is 22,121
square feet and fronts the northeast corner of Lampson Avenue and Basswood Street.
The applicant, Steve Rawlings, is seeking a Conditional Use Permit to allow the sale of
beer and wine (ABC Type 20 beer and wine alcohol license) for off-site consumption, in
conjunction with an existing automotive service station. The subject business of the
automobile service station has been in operation since 1968 with the convenience store
being added to the site in 2009 under CUP 06-3. The applicant is also seeking approval
of a variance for the sale of beer and wine at an automobile service station that is within
1,000 feet of a park. The business is located within 50 feet of a residential property
(private gated condominium complex) and within 350 feet from a City park (Bluebell Park).
Proximity to Residences: Seal Beach Municipal Code (SBMC) Section
11.4.05.035.B.24(a) provides that automotive service station convenience markets may
sell beer and wine provided the service station convenience market complies with the
requirements for off-site sale retail applications in City Council Policy 600-1: Standard
Conditions for Alcohol Related Land Uses, including but not limited to the maximum
proximity to residences, the proscription of an undue concentration of alcohol uses, and
the prohibition of on-site consumption. Under City Council Policy 600-1, when considering
an application for a Conditional Use Permit for alcohol-related land uses, such uses must
be 100 feet away from residential areas unless the applicant establishes that the
operation of the business would not interfere with the quiet enjoyment of property by
residents. A copy of Policy 600-1 is included with this staff report for reference.
Since the business is located within 50 feet of a private-gated condominium complex,
staff is recommending that the Planning Commission make the finding that the inclusion
of beer and wine sales is not expected to interfere with the quiet enjoyment of the
residential properties. The automobile service station and convenience store have been
in operation in good order for several years and the city has not received any complaints
of their operations impacting the nearby residences. The sale of beer and wine would be
incidental to the current operations, and as such, is not expected to produce additional
impacts. The establishment will be required to comply with conditions to ensure the proper
sale of alcohol beverages to patrons is in compliance with Policy 600-1, and these
conditions have been successfully applied to other alcohol beverage vendors near
residences to prevent adverse impacts on the surrounding community. The Seal Beach
Police Department has reviewed this request and has no objections. Further, the
establishment of the sale of beer and wine at this location would be a public convenience
as this would be the only location within College Park East where these convenience
goods can be bought. Nearby residents currently need to drive to the shopping centers
on Seal Beach Boulevard or into Garden Grove to make their purchases. The proposed
use is also consistent with the General Plan Service Commercial Land Uses definition
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that encourages commercial areas to provide a broad range of retail and service needs
for the community.
Proximity to Park: SBMC Section 11.4.05.035.B.24(c) provides that the sale of beer and
wine from an automobile service station business shall not take place within 1,000 feet of
a park, religious institution, or school unless the findings for a variance can be made. The
existing automobile service station is located within 350 feet from Bluebell Park. SBMC
Section 11.5.20.005.C. authorizes the Planning Commission to grant a Variance to adjust
performance standards subject to the following findings: (1) any variance granted shall
be subject to such conditions as will assure that the adjustment thereby authorized shall
not constitute a grant of special privileges inconsistent with the limitations upon other
properties in the vicinity and zoning district in which the property is situated; and (2) a
variance shall not be granted which authorizes a use or activity which is not otherwise
expressly authorized by the zone district regulations governing the subject property.
Staff believes that the Variance finding can be made that this would not be a grant of
special privileges for the sale of alcohol beverages within 1,000 feet of a park, school, or
religious institution because research through the State’s Alcohol Beverage Control
(ABC) data shows that there are 12 ABC licenses within the city for the off-site sale of
alcohol beverages and research of each site has identified that 7 of the 12 are located
within 1,000 feet of a park, and an additional 1 is located within 1,000 feet of a school, so
the granting of the variance would not grant a special privilege that 8 out of 12 vendors
do not already have. Additionally, this variance does not authorize a use or activity that is
not otherwise expressly authorized by the zone district regulations governing the subject
property. This property is located in the GC zone, which authorizes the off-site sale of
beer and wine through the approval of a CUP.
Further, as with the same findings as stated above in the “Proximity to Residents” section
above, the business has operated in good standing for several years and the addition of
the sale of beer and wine will be incidental to the use, and staff has not found indication
that this would produce additional nuisance impacts to the neighborhood, including
through consultation with the Police Department. The establishment of the sale of beer
and wine at this location would be a public convenience as this would be the only location
within College Park East where these convenience goods can be bought. Nearby
residents currently need to drive to the shopping centers on Seal Beach Boulevard or into
Garden Grove to make their purchases.
Approval of the variance would also be consistent with the concurrent CUP approval that
will allow the service station convenience store to sell beer and wine for off-site
consumption, and which has been conditioned to prevent adverse impacts on the
surrounding community. The proposed use is consistent with the General Plan Service
Commercial Land Uses definition that encourages commercial areas to provide a broad
range of retail and service needs for the community.
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CONCLUSION
After conducting the public hearing and receiving public testimony, staff recommends that
the Planning Commission adopt attached Resolution No. 23-15 approving Conditional
Use Permit 23-4 to allow the sale of beer and wine (ABC Type 20 alcohol license) for off-
site consumption and reduction in the required distance of 100 feet from residences under
City Council Policy 600-1; and adopt attached Resolution No. 23-16 approving Variance
VAR 23-1 to allow a reduction the required distance of 1,000 feet from parks, in
conconjunction with an existing automobile service station located at 4000 Lampson in
the General Commercial (GC) Zoned area.
Prepared by:
Marco Cuevas Jr. Alexa Smittle
Marco Cuevas Jr. Alexa Smittle
Associate Planner Director of Community Development
Attachments:
1. Resolution No. 23-15 - A resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Seal
Beach, approving Conditional Use Permit 23-4 to permit to allow the sale of beer
and wine (ABC Type 20 alcohol license) for off-site consumption in conjunction
with an existing convenience store within the General Commercial (CG) Zoned
Area, and;
2. Resolution No. 23-16 – A Resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of
Seal Beach, Approving Variance 23-1 to allow a reduction in the distance from
parks.
3. Site Plan
4. Floor Plan
5. Site Photographs
6. City Council Policy 600-1: Standard Conditions for Alcohol Related Land Uses
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RESOLUTION NO. 23-15
A RESOLUTION OF THE SEAL BEACH PLANNING
COMMISSION APPROVING CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT 23-4 TO ALLOW THE SALE OF BEER AND
WINE (ABC TYPE 20 ALCOHOL LICENSE) FOR
OFF-SITE CONSUMPTION IN CONJUNCTION WITH
AN AUTOMOBILE SERVICE STATION
CONVENIENCE STORE WITHIN THE GENERAL
COMMERCIAL (GC) ZONING AREA
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH DOES HEREBY
FIND AND RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. On May 18, 2023, Steve Rawlings submitted an application to the
City of Seal Beach Department of Community Development for Conditional Use Permit
(CUP) 23-4 to allow a Type 20 (beer and wine) alcohol license at an existing automotive
service station convenience store at 4000 Lampson Avenue, (the “subject property”),
which is located in the General Commercial (GC) Zone.
Section 2. Pursuant to the State of California Public Resources Code and State
Guidelines for the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Community
Development Department has determined that the proposed project is categorically
exempt from environmental review per Section 15301 (Existing Facility) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, as no development is proposed.
Section 3. A duly noticed public hearing was held before the Planning
Commission on December 18, 2023, to consider the application for CUP 23-4. At the
public hearing, the Planning Commission received and considered all evidence
presented, both written and oral, regarding the subject application. The record of the
public hearing indicates the following:
A. The subject site is located on the northeast corner of Lampson
Avenue and Basswood Street. The property operates as an automobile service station
with three service bays and a 1,275 square foot convenience store. The land area of the
site is 22,121 square feet. The subject site is surrounded by residential uses to north and
east, open space parks and recreation to the south, and recreational/golf use to the west.
B. The proposed alcohol license Type 20 (beer and wine) does not
require any modifications to the existing building. The applicant is maintaining the overall
layout of the existing convenience store with the exception of minor interior improvements
for storage of the alcohol beverages.
C. Pursuant to Seal Beach Municipal Code Section 11.4.05.015, a
conditional use permit is required for all alcoholic beverage establishments; and the CUP
must include all appropriate conditions of City Council Policy 600-1: Standard Conditions
for Alcohol-Related Land Uses.
Section 4. Based upon the facts contained in the record, including those stated
in the preceding Section of this Resolution and pursuant to Chapter 11.5.20 of the Code
of the City of Seal Beach, the Planning Commission makes the following findings:
Resolution No. 23-15
4000 Lampson Avenue
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A. The proposed alcohol license in conjunction with an existing
automobile service station with convenience store is consistent with the General Plan.
The General Plan specifies that the Service Commercial Land Uses designation
encourages commercial areas to provide a broad range of retail and service needs for
the community. With the continued use of the subject site as a convenience store with
the sale of beer and wine, the convenience store can offer its customers greater
convenience.
B. The proposed use complies with applicable provisions of the
Municipal Code and the General Commercial Zone. The Municipal Code allows for a
Type 20 (beer and wine) alcohol license at a service station convenience store with
approval of a Conditional Use Permit. The existing service station convenience store
complies with all other applicable provisions of the Municipal Code, with approval of the
associated Variance.
C. The subject site is physically adequate for the proposed use. The
convenience store with the Type 20 alcohol license does not require alterations to the
exterior of the building and no additional parking is required. The subject site is
considered in compliance with all parking requirements because of there will be no
physical expansion of the convenience store or building.
D. The location, size, design, and operating characteristics of the
proposed convenience store with the Type 20 alcohol license would be compatible with
the surrounding uses and will not adversely affect those uses or properties in the
surrounding areas. The existing building complies with the height, setback and parking
requirements of the General Commercial zoning area and conditions have been imposed
to ensure the proper service of alcohol to patrons in compliance with City Council Policy
600-1 (Standard Conditions for Alcohol Related Land Uses). The convenience store’s
hours of operation will be from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM seven days a week with alcohol
service hours from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily.
E. The establishment, maintenance, and operation of the proposed
Type 20 alcohol license would not be detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of
persons residing or working in the vicinity. The proposed Type 20 license will not require
modifications to the site and sufficient conditions have been imposed to ensure that the
use will comply with the Performance Standards set forth in Section 11.4.10.020 of the
Zoning Code and will not create adverse impacts upon adjacent uses. The property is
consistent with uses found in General Commercial areas which consists of a service, retail
and convenience store uses.
F. The subject site is located approximately 50 feet from the nearest
residential property and other sensitive land uses such as measured from the
convenience store’s primary front entrance. The addition of the sale of beer and wine is
not expected to interfere with the quiet enjoyment of property by residents. The
automobile service station and convenience store have been in operation in good order
for several years and the city has not received any complaints of their operations
impacting the nearby residences. The sale of beer and wine would be incidental to the
current operations, and as such, is not expected to produce additional impacts.
Furthermore, the proximity to residential properties is similar to other retail
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establishments serving alcohol beverages throughout the city. The noise levels generated
by the operation of the site would not exceed the level of background noise normally
found in the area as there will no change to the operation of the business and the sales
area will be fully contained within the interior of the convenience store. In the event that
complaints are received in the future, the Planning Commission reserves the right to
reconsider the operation of the business and the conditions of approval.
G. The sale of the beer and wine at the convenience store would provide
a public convenience or necessity as this would be the only location within College Park
East where these convenience goods can be bought. Nearby residents currently need to
drive to the shopping centers on Seal Beach Boulevard or into Garden Grove to make
their purchases. The sale of beer and wine would be incidental to the current operations
and sales at the convenience store and there is no indication that this activity would create
an additional nuisance.
Section 5. Based upon the foregoing, the Planning Commission hereby
approves CUP 23-4 to permit a Type 20 (beer and wine) alcohol license to allow beer and
wine sales for off-site consumption in conjunction with an existing service station
convenience store, at 4000 Lampson Avenue, subject to the following conditions.
1. Conditional Use Permit 23-4 is approved to permit the sale of beer and wine (Type
20 ABC license) at an existing service station convenience store located at 4000
Lampson Avenue.
2. The applicant shall comply with all restrictions placed upon the license by the State
of California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. In connection with the City
consideration of an application, the applicant must demonstrate compliance with
all restrictions placed upon the issuance of such license by the Alcoholic Beverage
Control Act, California Business and Professions Code Sections 23000 through
25762, and its implementing regulations set forth in Title 4 of Division 1 of the
California Code of Regulations, including but not limited to Rule 61.4.
3. The applicant shall furnish the City a copy of his ABC license and a copy of the
conditions placed on the license by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.
This shall be done as soon as the license is received by the applicant from the
State of California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.
4. The premises of the convenience store must be in substantial compliance with the
plan submitted with the application dated May 18, 2023, and maintained on file
with the Community Development Department.
5. The hours of operation shall be 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM seven days a week with
alcohol service hours from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily.
6. No video games or similar amusements shall be permitted on the premises.
7. There shall be no exterior advertising of any kind or type, including advertising
directed to the exterior from within, promoting or indicating the availability of
alcoholic beverages.
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8. In the event staff determines security problems exist on the site, the Conditions of
this permit may be amended to require the provisions of additional security
measures.
9. Deliveries to the premises are prohibited between 10:00 P.M. and 7:00 A.M.
10. There shall be no dumping of trash outside and/or glass bottles outside the
establishment between the hours of 10:00 P.M. and 7:00 A.M.
11. Any proposed alterations or upgrades to the convenience store will require review
and approval from the City of Seal Beach Planning Division.
12. The establishment must comply with Chapter 7.15 “Noise” of the City of Seal
Beach Municipal Code. Should complaints be received regarding noise generated
by the establishment, the Planning Commission reserves the right to schedule this
permit for reconsideration and may require the applicant/business operator to
mitigate the noise level to comply with the provisions of Chapter 7.15.
13. A modification of this CUP must be applied for when:
a. The establishment proposes to change its type of liquor license.
b. The establishment proposes to modify any of its current Conditions of
Approval.
c. There is a substantial change in the mode or character of operations of the
establishment.
14. The Planning Commission reserves the right to revoke or modify this CUP if any
violation of the approved conditions occurs, any violation of the Code of the City of
Seal Beach occurs.
15. The Planning Commission reserves the right to revoke or modify this CUP if harm
or operational problems such as criminal or anti-social behavior occur. Examples
of harmful or operation behaviors include, but not limited to, violence, public
drunkenness, vandalism, solicitation and/or litter.
16. The establishment shall have a public telephone listing.
17. It shall be the responsibility of the applicant/licensee to provide all employees that
sell or serve alcoholic beverages with the knowledge and skills that will enable
them to comply with their responsibilities under State law.
18. Litter and trash receptacles shall be located at convenient locations inside the
establishment and operators of such establishments shall remove trash and debris
on an appropriate basis so as not to cause a health problem.
19. The sale of alcoholic beverages for on premises consumption shall be prohibited.
Consumption of alcoholic beverages shall be prohibited in the establishment’s
parking area. There shall be appropriate posting of signs both inside and outside
the licensed premises indicating that drinking outside the licensed premises is
prohibited by law.
20. The applicant will prominently display these Conditions of Approval in a location
within the businesses’ customer area that is acceptable to the Community
Development Director.
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21. Failure to comply with any of these conditions or a substantial change in the mode
or character of the use shall be grounds for revoking or modifying this CUP
approval.
22. This CUP shall not become effective for any purpose unless/until a City
“Acceptance of Conditions” form has been signed and notarized by the applicant
before being returned to the Planning Department; and until the ten (10) calendar
day appeal period has elapsed.
23. The applicant is required to obtain all required Building and Safety permits prior to
any tenant improvements, construction, or demolition.
24. Approval of this request shall not waive compliance with all sections of the
Municipal Code, or all other applicable City Ordinances in effect at the time of
building permit issuance.
25. This CUP shall become null and void unless exercised within one year of the date
of final approval, or such extension of time as may be granted by the Planning
Commission pursuant to a written request for extension submitted to the
Community Development Department at least ninety days prior to such expiration
date.
26. The applicant must indemnify, defend, and hold harmless City, its officers, agents,
and employees (collectively “the City” hereinafter in this paragraph) from any and
all claims and losses whatsoever occurring or resulting to any and all persons,
firms, or corporations furnishing or supplying work, services, materials, or supplies
in connection with the performance of the use permitted hereby or the exercise of
the rights granted herein, and any and all claims, lawsuits or actions arising from
the granting of or the exercise of the rights permitted by this Conditional Use
Permit, and from any and all claims and losses occurring or resulting to any person,
firm, corporation or property for damage, injury or death arising out of or connected
with the performance of the use permitted hereby. Applicant’s obligation to
indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the City as stated herein shall include, but
not be limited to, paying all fees and costs incurred by legal counsel of the City’s
choice in representing the City in connection with any such claims, losses, lawsuits
or actions, expert witness fees, and any award of damages, judgments, verdicts,
court costs or attorneys’ fees in any such lawsuit or action.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the Seal Beach Planning Commission
at a meeting thereof held on December 18, 2023, by the following vote:
AYES: Commissioners _________________________________________
NOES: Commissioners _________________________________________
ABSENT: Commissioners _________________________________________
ABSTAIN: Commissioners _________________________________________
Resolution No. 23-15
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_________________________________
Patty Campbell
ATTEST: Chairperson
_________________________________
Alexa Smittle
Planning Commission Secretary
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RESOLUTION NO. 23-16
A RESOLUTION OF THE SEAL BEACH PLANNING
COMMISSION APPROVING VARIANCE 23-1 TO
ALLOW A REDUCTION OF THE REQUIRED 1,000
FOOT DISTANCE FROM PARKS FOR THE SALE OF
BEER AND WINE AT A CONVENIENCE STORE OF AN
AUTOMOBILE SERVICE STATION LOCATED AT 4000
LAMPSON AVENUE IN THE CG (GENERAL
COMMERCIAL) ZONE
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH DOES HEREBY FIND
AND RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Steve Rawlings (“the applicant”) on behalf of Nirvair Corporation (“the
owners”), submitted an application to the City of Seal Beach Department of Community
Development for Variance (VAR) 23-1 to allow a reduction in the required 1,000 foot distance
from parks for the sale of beer and wine at a convenience store of an automobile service station
within the CG (General Commercial) zone.
Section 2. This project is determined to be a Class 1 (Existing Facilities) Categorical
Exemption pursuant to Section 15301 of the Guidelines for the California Environmental Quality
Act (Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.) for permitting the sale of beer and wine
within an existing automobile service station convenience store, as there is no associated
development.
Section 3. A duly noticed meeting was held before the Planning Commission on
December 18, 2023, to consider the application for Variance 23-1. At this meeting, the Planning
Commission received and considered all evidence presented, both written and oral, regarding
the subject application. The record of the public hearing indicates the following:
A. The subject site consists of a 22,121 sq. ft. parcel developed with an
automobile service station with a convenience store. The subject site is located on the
northeast corner of Lampson Avenue and Basswood Street. The subject site is surrounded by
residential uses to north and east, open space parks and recreation to the south, and
recreational/golf use to the west.
B. The Seal Beach Municipal Code (SBMC §11.4.05.035) requires all
Automobile Service Stations to adhere to standards based on the specific use.
C. The applicant is requesting approval of Conditional Use Permit (CUP) 23-4
to allow the sale of beer and wine (ABC Type 20 alcohol license) for off-site consumption. The
CUP is required in order to comply with the applicable Standard Conditions for Alcohol Related
Land Uses, pursuant to City Council Policy 600-1.
Section 4. Based upon the facts contained in the record, including those stated in the
preceding Section of this resolution and pursuant to Chapter 11.5.20 of the Code of the City of
Seal Beach, the Planning Commission makes the following findings with respect to Variance
23-1:
Resolution 23-16
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A. The variance conforms in all significant respects with the General Plan and
with any ordinances adopted by the City Council. The General Plan Land Use Map designates
the subject property as Service Commercial and the subject site is consistent uses as allowed
in the General Commercial zoned properties. The applicant’s proposal for the sale of beer and
wine complies with all development standards set by SBMC §11.4.05.035, with the exception
of the requested reduction in the 1,000 foot distance from a the park.
B. Because of special circumstances applicable to the property, including
size, shape, topography, location or surroundings, the strict application of the Zoning Code
deprives such property of privileges enjoyed by other properties in the vicinity and under
identical zoning district classification. The subject property is the only commercial property in
the city not located on a commercial corridor or within a shopping center, and is unique in being
the only commercial property located within College Park East with the ability to provide
convenience goods and services to that neighborhood. The strict application of the Zoning
Code would deprive the subject property of providing a convenience service that other uses in
the General Commercial zone are able to provide within the city.
C. The variance does not constitute a grant of special privileges inconsistent
with the limitations upon other properties in the vicinity and zone district in which such property
is situated. The applicant is requesting a reduction in the required distance from the nearest
park from 1000 feet to 350 feet. Research through the State’s Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC)
data shows that there are 12 ABC licenses within the city for the off-site sale of alcohol
beverages and research of each site has identified that 7 of the 12 are located within 1,000
feet of a park, and an additional 1 is located within 1,000 feet of a school, so the granting of the
variance would not grant a special privilege that 8 out of 12 vendors do not already have.
D. Authorization of the variance substantially meets the intent and purpose
of the zoning district in which the property is located and will not be detrimental to the health,
safety, and welfare of persons living or working in the neighborhood or to the general welfare
of the City. The subject site is located in the CG zone which is developed with an automobile
service station with a convenience store. The applicant is proposing the sale of beer and wine
(ABC Type 20 License) for off-site consumption with an existing convenience store. The
applicant’s proposal will comply with all development standards required by the Seal Beach
Municipal Code, with the exception of the requested reduction in distances from residential and
park designated properties. The addition of the sale of beer and wine is not expected to
interfere with the quiet enjoyment of property by residents. The automobile service station and
convenience store have been in operation in good order for several years and the city has not
received any complaints of their operations impacting the nearby residences. The sale of beer
and wine would be incidental to the current operations, and as such, is not expected to produce
additional impacts.
E. The sale of the beer and wine at the convenience store would provide a
public convenience or necessity as this would be the only location within College Park East
where these convenience goods can be bought. Nearby residents currently need to drive to
the shopping centers on Seal Beach Boulevard or into Garden Grove to make their purchases.
The sale of beer and wine would be incidental to the current operations and sales at the
convenience store and there is no indication that this activity would create an additional
nuisance.
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Section 5. Based upon the foregoing, the Planning Commission hereby approves
Variance VAR 23-1 subject to the conditions listed below:
1. Variance 23-1 is approved to permit a reduction in the required distance to public parks
from 1000 feet to 350 feet in the CG (General Commercial) zone.
2. The applicant must obtain all necessary Permits and shall comply with all restrictions
placed upon the license by the State of California Department of Alcoholic Beverage
Control. In connection with the City consideration of an application, the applicant must
demonstrate compliance with all restrictions placed upon the issuance of such license by
the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, California Business and Professions Code Sections
23000 through 25762, and its implementing regulations set forth in Title 4 of Division 1 of
the California Code of Regulations, including but not limited to Rule 61.4.
3. This Variance shall not become effective for any purpose unless/until the governing CUP
is approved; and a City “Acceptance of Conditions” form has been signed and notarized
by the applicant before being returned to the Planning Department; and until the ten (10)
calendar day appeal period has elapsed.
4. A modification of this Variance must be applied for when the applicant proposes to modify
any of its current Conditions of Approval or there is a substantial change in the proposed
site plan.
5. The Planning Commission reserves the right to revoke or modify this Variance if any
violation of the approved conditions occurs, any violation to the governing CUP occurs, or
any violation of the Code of the City of Seal Beach occurs.
6. This Variance shall become null and void unless exercised within one year of the date of
final approval, or such extension of time as may be granted by the Planning Commission
pursuant to written request for extension submitted to the Community Development
Department a minimum of ninety days prior to such expiration date.
7. The applicant shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless City, its officers, agents and
employees (collectively “the City” hereinafter) from any and all claims and losses
whatsoever occurring or resulting to any and all persons, firms, or corporations furnishing
or supplying work, services, materials, or supplies in connection with the performance of
the use permitted hereby or the exercise of the rights granted herein, and any and all
claims, lawsuits or actions arising from the granting of or the exercise of the rights permitted
by this Variance, and from any and all claims and losses occurring or resulting to any
person, firm, corporation or property for damage, injury or death arising out of or connected
with the performance of the use permitted hereby. Applicant’s obligation to indemnify,
defend and hold harmless the City as stated herein shall include, but not be limited to,
paying all fees and costs incurred by legal counsel of the City’s choice in representing the
City in connection with any such claims, losses, lawsuits or actions, expert witness fees,
and any award of damages, judgments, verdicts, court costs or attorneys’ fees in any such
lawsuit or action.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the Seal Beach Planning Commission at a
meeting thereof held on December 18, 2023, by the following vote:
Resolution 23-16
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AYES: Commissioners _________________________________________
NOES: Commissioners _________________________________________
ABSENT: Commissioners _________________________________________
ABSTAIN: Commissioners _________________________________________
_________________________________
Patty Campbell,
ATTEST:Chairperson
_________________________________
Alexa Smittle
Planning Commission Secretary
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