Johnny Malpica, Planner II, gave an overview of this application. This project is
a conversion of a space into a bar, which is a conditional use in the form based
zone. The proposal includes interior modifications that do not require a building
permit. Public notice was provided and two public comments were received.
Those comments identified deteriorating conditions of the surrounding
neighborhood, namely homelessness, drug use, theft and acts of violence.
Both comments expressed opposition to another bar serving alcohol.
There were no comments received during agency review. Staff finds that the
application meets the review criteria.
Board Member Coats asked what the existing use of the space is. Mr. Malpica
said it has been used for various retail purposes. The conditional use is
required also because of the need for a liquor license.
Board Member Hensler asked if the neighboring restaurants also have liquor
licenses and if there is an issue with multiple in-line businesses having them.
Mr. Malpica said that restaurants are classified as receiving less than 50% of
their revenue from alcohol and do not require the conditional use approval.
Board Member Mikulas asked about the operating hours of the surrounding
businesses. Mr. Malpica said he was not aware of what those hours are.
The applicant, Carlo Guerrier, was present for questions. Chair Lord asked him
to share a little about the business and the plan to address concerns. Mr.
Guerrier said they will have on-site security to keep bad behavior in check. His
biggest goal is to provide a place for everybody to come and relax. He
acknowledged that dealing with the homeless is a problem and they do their
best to mitigate any issues.
Board Member Nolette asked what the operating hours would be. Mr. Guerrier
said noon to 2 a.m.
Board Member Mikulas asked what their target audience will be. Mr. Guerrier
said everybody is welcome.
Motion by Board Member Hensler, seconded by Board Member Kuosman, to
approve the proposed FBZ conditional use development plan based on the
findings that conditional use criteria found in City Code section 7.5.704 are met.
The motion passed by a vote of 8-0.
8 -
Aye:
Board Member Nolette, Board Member Kuosman, Board Member Coats, Board
Member Hensler, Board Member Lord, Board Member Friesema, Board Member
Mikulas and Board Member Luciano
1 - Board Member Kronstadt
Absent:
9. Presentations