Laguna Beach Planning Commission - April 15, 2026

April 15, 2026

Executive Summary

- The Laguna Beach Planning Commission held its regular meeting on April 15, 2026, led by Chair Pro Tem Goldman in the absence of Chair Kellenberg. - The Commission unanimously approved Design Review 2026-0125 and Sign Permit 2026-0565 for a new Farity menswear retail store at 255 Forest Avenue in the downtown commercial district, featuring facade improvements including wood cladding, new paint finishes, and non-illuminated signage. - The Commission completed General Plan Consistency review 2026-0713 for the City's Fiscal Year 2026-27 Capital Improvement Program, finding all proposed projects consistent with the General Plan. - Due to proximity concerns, Chair Kellenberg and Chair Pro Tem Goldman recused themselves from voting on the enclosed lifeguard tower installations project, with the remaining three commissioners approving that portion separately. - The Commission raised concerns about coordination between overlapping projects at Aliso Beach parking lot and the estuary improvement project. - A joint study session with City Council and the Design Review Board is scheduled for May 26, 2026 at 3:00 PM to discuss objective design standards for one and two-family residential devel

Key Decisions

- Approved Design Review 2026-0125 and Sign Permit 2026-0565 for Farity clothing store at 255 Forest Avenue with Resolution Number 2026-0125 (vote: 5-0). - Found the proposed enclosed lifeguard tower installations consistent with the General Plan and exempt from CEQA (vote: 3-0 by Commissioners Dubin, Sadler, and Whiten following recusal of Chair Kellenberg and Chair Pro Tem Goldman). - Adopted Resolution 2026-0713 finding the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Capital Improvement Program projects (excluding lifeguard towers) consistent with the City's General Plan and exempt from CEQA (vote: 5-0)