NEWPORT BEACH CITY COUNCIL PREVIEW

DUNES PROJECT ON TAP

After months of Planning Commission review, the controversial project was

downsized and unanimously approved. The project is for a 470-room hotel

and time-share. The four-star resort includes a 31,000-square-foot

conference center, as well as swimming pools, a health spa and

restaurants.

It is estimated that the proposal would bring more than $1.4 million a

year in sales tax to the city.

What to expect: The controversial $100-million Dunes resort proposal will

be addressed by the City Council on Tuesday. Council members expect it

will take two sessions before a final decision is made. If approved, the

resort is scheduled to open within the next three to five years.

AIRPORT AREA COMMITTEE

As part of its application to expand its facilities, Conexant Systems

Inc. has requested a development agreement to help plan for the airport

area.

The Conexant expansion is currently going through the Planning Department

and is expected to reach the City Council soon. The council wanted to

take the opportunity and develop an agreement to help plan for the

airport area.

What to expect: City staff has recommended the council appoint a

committee comprising two representatives from the City Council and two

from the Planning Commission. The committee would work with staff and

airport area owners who wish to develop their properties to discuss

planning and traffic improvements.

STREET IMPROVEMENTS

Newport Heights streets that will be improved are Santa Ana Avenue,

Catalina Drive, Holmwood Drive and Beacon Street. The project includes

fixing the pavement by covering it with an overlay, and in some areas

completely replacing the roadway.

What to expect: Staff has recommended the contract for street

improvements in Newport Heights go to Nobest Inc. of Westminster for

$449,955.

FYI

* WHAT: City Council meeting

* WHEN: 4 p.m. Tuesday for the study session; 7 p.m. for agenda items.

* WHERE: Council Chambers, 3300 Newport Blvd.

ON THE COUNCIL:

Mayor John Noyes

Dennis O’Neil

Norma Glover

Jan Debay

Gary Adams

Tod Ridgeway

Tom Thomson