HomeMy WebLinkAbout1955 - MUP FOR ALCOHOL - 3014 Balboa Blvd RESOLUTION NO. 1955
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH UPHOLDING THE ZONING
ADMINISTRATOR'S DECISION APPROVING MINOR USE
PERMIT NO. UP2014-013 TO ADD ALCOHOL SALES TO AN
EXISTING RESTAURANT ESTABLISHMENT LOCATED AT 3014
BALBOA BOULEVARD (PA2014-058)
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH HEREBY FINDS AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. STATEMENT OF FACTS.
1. An application was filed by Donnie Lancaster, with respect to property located at 3104
Balboa Boulevard, and legally described Lake Tract, Lot 1, Block 130 Including a
Portion of Section 28, Township 6, Range 10 Between the same & Railroad right-of-
way except Easterly 10 ft & Southerly 25 ft, requesting approval of a minor use permit.
2. The applicant proposes to add a Type 41 (On-sale Beer and Wine) Alcoholic Beverage
Control (ABC) License to an existing food service, eating and drinking establishment.
No late hours (after 11:00 p.m.) are proposed.
3. The subject property is located within the Commercial Neighborhood (CN) Zoning District
and the General Plan Land Use Element category is Neighborhood Commercial (CN).
4. The subject property is located within the coastal zone. The Coastal Land Use Plan
category is Neighborhood Commercial - (0.0 - 0.30 FAR).
5. A public hearing was held on June 12, 2014, in the Corona del Mar Conference Room
(Bay E-1st Floor) at 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach. A notice of time, place and
purpose of the meeting was given in accordance with the Newport Beach Municipal
Code. Evidence, both written and oral, was presented to, and considered by, the
Zoning Administrator at this meeting.
6. At the June 12, 2014, meeting the Zoning Administrator approved the application request
pursuant to Zoning Administrator Resolution No. 2014-020.
7. On June 25, 2014, Councilmember Mike Henn appealed the decision of the Zoning
Administrator.
8. At their Special Meeting held on August 11, 2014, the Planning Commission voted (6
ayes, 1 absent) to continue the scheduled public hearing on the appeal to the regular
Planning Commission meeting scheduled for August 21, 2014, at the request of the
applicant.
9. A public hearing was held on August 21, 2014, in the Council Chambers at 100 Civic
Center Drive, Newport Beach. A notice of time, place and purpose of the meeting was
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given in accordance with the Newport Beach Municipal Code. Evidence, both written
and oral, was presented to, and considered by, the Planning Commission at this
meeting.
SECTION 2. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITYACT DETERMINATION.
1. This project has been determined to be categorically exempt pursuant to Title 14 of the
California Code of Regulations (Section 15315, Article 19 of Chapter 3, Guidelines for
Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act) under Class 1 (Existing
Facilities).
2. The Class 1 exemption includes the ongoing use of existing buildings where there is
negligible or no expansion of use. Sancho's Tacos is an existing food establishment.
The proposed project involves the addition of an ABC License to sell and serve beer
and wine.
SECTION 3. REQUIRED FINDINGS.
In accordance with Section 20.48.030 (Alcohol Sales) of the Newport Beach Municipal Code,
the following findings and facts in support of the findings for a use permit are set forth:
Finding
A. The use is consistent with the purpose and intent of Section 20.48.030 (Alcohol Sales) of
the Zoning Code.
Facts in Support of Finding
In finding that the proposed use is consistent with Section 20.48.030 (Alcohol Sales) of the
Zoning Code, the following criteria must be considered:
i. The crime rate in the reporting district and adjacent reporting districts as compared to
other areas in the City.
1. The crime rate in the subject reporting district (RD 15) as well as two of the
three adjacent RDs (Reporting Districts) are over the City average. However,
RD 15 contains the large commercial shopping center known as The Landing at
32 d Street and Balboa Boulevard and includes much of Via Lido and Balboa
Boulevard. The intent of the zoning designations in this beach area, as well as
the two adjacent RDs, is to provide various commercial and retail uses to
support the surrounding residential area and the surrounding visitor-serving and
tourist destinations. These beach areas have a higher concentration of
commercial land uses and therefore tend to have a higher crime rate than other
areas in the City.
Y. The numbers of alcohol-related calls for service, crimes, or arrests in the reporting
district and in adjacent reporting districts.
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1. Due to the high concentration of commercial land uses, the calls for service and
number of arrests in RD 15 and the adjacent RDs are greater than other areas
in the City. Additionally, the area is considered one of the most significant
tourist areas of the City, which results in higher numbers of alcohol-related calls
for service, crimes and arrests.
iii. The proximity of the establishment to residential zoning districts, day care centers,
hospitals, park and recreation facilities, places of worship, schools, other similar uses,
and any uses that attract minors.
1. Although the commercial building is directly adjacent to a residential district, the
building also abuts a large commercial shopping center developed as a commercial
and retail area for the tourist area and surrounding residents. The nearest
residential uses are located directly east of the subject property. An outdoor deck
faces Balboa Boulevard and an outdoor patio is on the westerly side of the property
abutting the shopping center. There are no parks nearby; however, the beach is
approximately 480 feet southwest. There are no other sensitive land uses located
within close proximity of the subject building.
iv. The proximity to other establishments selling alcoholic beverages for either off-site or
on-site consumption.
1. Several other establishments along 32nd Street, Balboa Boulevard and Via Lido
currently have active ABC Licenses, most of which are bona fide eating and
drinking establishments and are not defined as bars, lounges or nightclubs by
the Zoning Code. The establishments within the immediate vicinity include
Gina's Pizza, Crow Burger Kitchen, Chipotle, Malarkey's and Rudy's.
2. Due to the type and operation of the restaurant, which is conditioned to close at
9:00 p.m. and operating with only 20 seats, and conditions of approval that are
in place to prevent the restaurant from operating as a bar or lounge, the
proximity to other establishments selling alcohol does not appear to raise
foreseeable concern.
v. Whether or not the proposed amendment will resolve any current objectionable
conditions
1. The subject building has historically been occupied by a small restaurant with the
same number of seats and hours of operation. There is no evidence that suggests
this type of use has created objectionable conditions.
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Minor Use Permit
In accordance with Section 20.52.020.F (Findings and Decision) of the Newport Beach
Municipal Code, the following findings and facts in support of the findings for a minor use
permit are set forth:
Finding
A. The use is consistent with the General Plan and any applicable specific plan;
Facts in Support of Finding
1. The General Plan designates this site Neighborhood Commercial (CN) which is to
provide a range of neighborhood-serving retail and service uses along street
frontages that are located and designed to foster pedestrian activity.
2. The proposed addition of alcohol sales and service to the existing restaurant use is
consistent with the CN designation as it is intended to provide a service not only to
visitors, but also to residents within the immediate neighborhood and surrounding
area.
3. Eating and drinking establishments are common along Balboa Boulevard and
Newport Boulevard and are complementary to the surrounding commercial and
residential uses.
4. The subject property is not part of a specific plan area.
Finding
B. The use is allowed within the applicable zoning district and complies with all other
applicable provisions of this Zoning Code and the Municipal Code;
Facts in Support of Finding
1. Pursuant to Section 20.20.020 (Commercial Zoning Districts Land Uses and Permit
Requirements, Table 2-5) of the Zoning Code, eating and drinking establishments
located in the CN Zoning District with no late hours and alcohol service, are
allowed with the approval of a minor use permit.
2. The existing parking and hours of operation will remain in place and are consistent
with the existing Specialty Food Permit that the restaurant currently operates
under.
3. As conditioned, the proposed project will comply with Zoning Code standards for
eating and drinking establishments.
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Finding
C. The design, location, size, and operating characteristics of the use are compatible with
the allowed uses in the vicinity;
Facts in Support of Finding
1. The commercial area was designed to be occupied by a mix of restaurants, retail
and service uses. The existing Sancho's Tacos restaurant complements the
existing uses and is a typical and expected type of use in similar commercial
districts.
2. The operation of the restaurant will continue to be restricted to the hours between
6:00 a.m, and 9:00 p.m., daily. These hours are consistent with the business hours of
other restaurants and uses in the commercial area. If the operation were to operate
later than 9:00 p.m., the Planning Commission would not have approved the sale of
alcohol due to the higher than average crime rate in Reporting District No. 15 and the
establishment's proximity to residential uses.
3. The surrounding area contains various, retail, business office and visitor serving
commercial uses including restaurants and take-out eating establishments. The
proposed establishment is compatible with the existing and permitted uses within
the area. Due to the proximity of the outdoor patios to abutting walkways, alcohol
could be passed to persons outside the control of the establishment potentially
creating unlawful conditions to the detriment of the neighborhood. Therefore,
alcohol should not be served or consumed on the outdoor patios.
4. The operational conditions of approval relative to the sale of alcoholic beverages
will help ensure compatibility with the surrounding uses and minimize alcohol
related impacts. The project has been conditioned to ensure that the business
remains a restaurant and does not become a bar or tavern. Additionally, dancing or
live entertainment is not permitted.
5. The establishment is required to comply with the City's noise ordinances and no
outside paging system or outside amplified music is allowed.
Finding
D. The site is physically suitable in terms of design, location, shape, size, operating
characteristics, and the provision of public and emergency vehicle (e.g., fire and medical)
access and public services and utilities; and
Facts in Support of Finding
1. The restaurant is currently in operation and the tenant space has been reviewed
and permitted.
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2. Original site plan approvals for the tenant space included a review to ensure
adequate public and emergency vehicle access, and that public services, and
utilities are provided. The tenant improvement plans were reviewed for compliance
with applicable building and fire codes.
Finding
E. Operation of the use at the location proposed would not be detrimental to the harmonious
and orderly growth of the City, or endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard
to the public convenience, health, interest, and safety, or general welfare of persons
residing or working in the neighborhood of the proposed use.
Facts in Support of Finding
1. The project has been reviewed to ensure that the recommended conditions of
approval ensure that potential conflicts with the surrounding land uses are minimized
to the greatest extent possible. The operator is required to take reasonable steps to
discourage and correct objectionable conditions that constitute a nuisance in parking
areas, sidewalks and areas surrounding the subject property and adjacent properties
during business hours, if directly related to the patrons of the establishment.
2. The food service, eating and drinking establishment will serve the surrounding
community designed for such uses. The service of alcohol is provided as a public
convenience and is not uncommon in establishments of this type. Additionally, the
service of alcohol will provide an economic opportunity for the property owner to
maintain a successful business that is compatible with the surrounding community.
3. All owners, managers, and employees selling or serving alcohol will be required to
complete a Responsible Beverage Service Certification Program.
SECTION 4. DECISION.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:
1. The Planning Commission of the City of Newport Beach hereby approves Minor Use
Permit No. UP2014-013, subject to the conditions set forth in Exhibit A, which is attached
hereto and incorporated by reference.
2. This action shall become final and effective 14 days after the adoption of this
Resolution unless within such time an appeal is filed with the City Clerk in accordance
with the provisions of Title 20 (Planning and Zoning), of the Newport Beach Municipal
Code.
3. This resolution supersedes Specialty Food Permit No. 46, which upon vesting of the
rights authorized by this Minor Use Permit, shall become null and void.
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PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 21st DAY OF AUGUST, 2014.
AYES: BROWN, HILLGREN, KOETTING, LAWLER, MYERS, AND TUCKER
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
ABSENT: KRAMER
BY: '7�1/
Larry Tucker, Chair
BY:
Jay yer , cret
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Planning Commission Resolution No. 1955
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EXHIBIT "A"
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
PLANNING DIVISION
1. The development shall be in substantial conformance with the approved site plan, floor
plans and building elevations stamped and dated with the date of this approval. (Except
as modified by applicable conditions of approval.)
2. The project is subject to all applicable City ordinances, policies, and standards, unless
specifically waived or modified by the conditions of approval.
3. The applicant shall comply with all federal, state, and local laws. Material violation of
any of those laws in connection with the use may be cause for revocation of this Use
Permit.
4. This Minor Use Permit may be modified or revoked by the Planning Commission if
determined that the proposed uses or conditions under which it is being operated or
maintained is detrimental to the public health, welfare or materially injurious to property
or improvements in the vicinity or if the property is operated or maintained so as to
constitute a public nuisance.
5. Any change in operational characteristics, expansion in area, or other modification to
the approved plans, shall require subsequent review and approval and may
necessitate an amendment to this Minor Use Permit or the processing of a new use
permit.
6. The hours of operation for the establishment shall be between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00
p.m., daily including the outdoor patio areas.
7. Seating for no more than 20 patrons shall be permitted. Of the 20 seats, eight may be
located within the designated outdoor seating areas.
8. The boundary of the outdoor seating areas shall be marked through the use of a
minimum 36-inch-high rail. Fences, walls, or similar barriers shall serve only to define
the outdoor dining area and not constitute a permanent all weather enclosure.
9. A minimum of two parking spaces shall be provided on-site and shall remain clear of
obstructions at all times.
10. Should the property be sold or otherwise come under different ownership, any future
owners or assignees shall be notified of the conditions of this approval by either the
current business owner, property owner or the leasing agent.
11. No outside paging system and no outside amplified music shall be utilized in
conjunction with this establishment.
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12. All trash shall be stored within the building or within dumpsters stored in the trash
enclosure (three walls and a self-latching gate) or otherwise screened from view of
neighboring properties, except when placed for pick-up by refuse collection agencies.
The trash enclosure shall have a decorative solid roof for aesthetic and screening
purposes.
13. Trash receptacles for patrons shall be conveniently located both inside and outside of
the establishment, however, not located on or within any public property or right-of-
way.
14. The exterior of the business shall be maintained free of litter and graffiti at all times. The
owner or operator shall provide for daily removal of trash, litter debris and graffiti from the
premises and on all abutting sidewalks within 20 feet of the premises.
15. The applicant shall ensure that the trash dumpsters and/or receptacles are maintained
to control odors. This may include the provision of either fully self-contained dumpsters
or periodic steam cleaning of the dumpsters, if deemed necessary by the Planning
Division. Cleaning and maintenance of trash dumpsters shall be done in compliance
with the provisions of Title 14 (Water and Sewers), including all future amendments
(including Water Quality related requirements).
16. Deliveries and refuse collection for the facility shall be prohibited between the hours of
10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., daily, unless otherwise approved by the Director of
Community Development, and may require an amendment to this Minor Use Permit.
17. Storage outside of the building in the front or at the rear of the property shall be
prohibited, with the exception of the required trash container enclosure.
18. All noise generated by the proposed use shall comply with the provisions of Chapter
10.26, 10.28 and other applicable noise control requirements of the Newport Beach
Municipal Code. The maximum noise shall be limited to no more than depicted below
for the specified time periods unless the ambient noise level is higher:
Between the hours of TOOAM Between the hours of
and 10:OOPM 10:OOPM and TOOAM
Location Interior Exterior Interior Exterior
Residential Property 45dBA 55dBA 40dBA 50dBA
Residential Property located within 45dBA 6OdBA 45dBA 50dBA
100 feet of a commercial property
Mixed Use Property 45dBA 60dBA 45dBA 50dBA
Commercial Property N/A 65dBA N/A 60dBA
19. A Special Events Permit is required for any event or promotional activity outside the
normal operational characteristics of the approved use, as conditioned, or that would
attract large crowds, involve the sale of alcoholic beverages, include any form of on-
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site media broadcast, or any other activities as specified in the Newport Beach
Municipal Code to require such permits.
20. This approval shall expire and become void unless exercised within 24 months from the
actual date of review and authority approval, except where an extension of time is
approved in compliance with the provisions of Title 20 (Planning and Zoning) of the
Newport Beach Municipal Code.
21. To the fullest extent permitted by law, applicant shall indemnify, defend and hold
harmless City, its City Council, its boards and commissions, officials, officers, employees,
and agents from and against any and all claims, demands, obligations, damages,
actions, causes of action, suits, losses, judgments, fines, penalties, liabilities, costs and
expenses (including without limitation, attorney's fees, disbursements and court costs) of
every kind and nature whatsoever which may arise from or in any manner relate (directly
or indirectly) to City's approval of the Sancho's Tacos Minor Use Permit including, but not
limited to, UP2014-013 (PA2014-058). This indemnification shall include, but not be
limited to, damages awarded against the City, if any, costs of suit, attorneys' fees, and
other expenses incurred in connection with such claim, action, causes of action, suit or
proceeding whether incurred by applicant, City, and/or the parties initiating or bringing
such proceeding. The applicant shall indemnify the City for all of City's costs, attorneys'
fees, and damages which City incurs in enforcing the indemnification provisions set forth
in this condition. The applicant shall pay to the City, upon demand, any amount owed to
the City pursuant to the indemnification requirements prescribed in this condition.
BUILDING DIVISION
22, Provide ADA access from the accessible parking area to the side patio seating.
POLICE DEPARTMENT
23. The approval of Minor Use Permit No. UP2014-013 does not permit Sancho's Tacos to
operate as a bar, tavern, cocktail lounge or nightclub as defined by the Municipal Code,
unless the Planning Commission first approves a use permit.
24. Food service from the regular menu shall be available to patrons up to thirty(30) minutes
before the scheduled closing time.
25. No alcoholic beverages shall be consumed on any property adjacent to the licensed
premises under the control of the licensee.
26. No "happy hour" type of reduced price alcoholic beverage promotion shall be allowed
except when offered in conjunction with food ordered from the full service menu.
27. No games or contests requiring or involving the consumption of alcoholic beverages
shall be permitted.
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28. Petitioner shall not share any profits or pay any percentage or commission to a promoter
or any other person based upon monies collected as a door charge, cover charge, or any
other form of admission charge, including minimum drink orders or the sale of drinks.
29. The quarterly gross sales of alcoholic beverages shall not exceed the gross sales of food
during the same period. The licensee shall at all times maintain records, which reflect
separately the gross sales of food and the gross sales of alcoholic beverages of the
licensed business. These records shall be kept no less frequently than on a quarterly
basis and shall be made available to the Police Department on demand.
30. There shall be no on-site radio, television, video, film or other electronic media
broadcasts, including recordings to be broadcasted at a later time, which include the
service of alcoholic beverages, without first obtaining an approved special event permit
issued by the City of Newport Beach.
31. There shall be no live entertainment allowed on the premises.
32. There shall be no dancing allowed on the premises.
33. Strict adherence to maximum occupancy limits is required.
34. All persons selling alcoholic beverages shall be over the age of 21 and undergo and
successfully complete a certified training program in responsible methods and skills for
selling alcoholic beverages. The certified program must meet the standards of the
California Coordinating Council on Responsible Beverage Service or other
certifying/licensing body, which the State may designate. Records of each owner's,
manager's and employee's successful completion of the required certified training
program shall be maintained on the premises and shall be presented upon request by a
representative of the City of Newport Beach.
35. Alcohol shall not be served or consumed on either outdoor patio.
36. The use of kegs, pitchers or other large volume dispensing or serving devices shall be
prohibited.
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