NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION PREVIEW

Here are some items the commission will consider today.

NEWPORT BEACH BREWING CO.The commission has wrestled with the Newport Beach Brewing Co.’s operating permit since May 2006, after residents complained the restaurant and bar was too noisy, operated mainly as a bar instead of a restaurant and that patrons littered and urinated in the area.

After delaying the issue for months for further study, the commission is ready to discuss suggested changes to the restaurant’s permit. Planning staff members recommend a number of new rules, including one barring live entertainment or dancing, and a new security plan for the restaurant.

WHAT TO EXPECT

The commission probably will change the restaurant’s permit but allow it to keep operating, because restaurant officials already have made some attempts to address the complaints.

PLANNING APPEALSIn 2004, some City Council members thought too many planning commission decisions were being appealed, so they decided to require a majority vote of the council for an appeal. In November, they changed their minds and asked to return to allowing any one council member to appeal a decision by the planning commission or top department officials.

The commission will consider the policy change before it goes to the council.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Since council members asked for the change, the commission probably will agree and forward the code amendment on.

Compiled by Alicia Robinson

IF YOU GONewport Beach Planning Commission meeting

WHAT:

WHEN: 6:30 p.m. today

WHERE: City Council chambers, City Hall, 3300 Newport Blvd.

INFO: (949) 644-3200 or www.city.newport-beach.ca.us