The La Mesa City Council voted last week, on appeal, to uphold the Planning Commission's decision to allow hospitality at a local Mediterranean restaurant.
The Charcoal House, a restaurant located at 9566 Murray Drive in a commercial zone just north of Interstate 8, will undergo a conditional sale in July 2021 to expand and continue its performance in the building. A license was issued. The permit was extended by the Planning Commission in August 2022, which also addressed “long-standing city compliance issues” and required the community development director to report to the Planning Commission within one year.
On December 6, 2023, the Planning Commission unanimously voted to renew the permit to allow live singers, disc jockeys, dancers, comedians, and magicians.
The decision included additional conditions, including requiring The Charcoal House to contract with professional security, towing and valet services, and banning smoking in enclosed areas. If the restaurant is determined to be in good standing, the permit will automatically renew five years from the date of issue.
“The conditions of approval outline a process for holding a new public hearing before the Planning Commission if the Community Development Director determines that the use is non-compliant,” said Lynette, Community Development Director.・Mr. Santos stated.
On Dec. 7, the city received an appeal of the decision from La Mesa resident Gary Wyer, who argued that Charcoal House has a “long history of failing to be a good neighbor” and that “city officials… “This is a well-known nuisance to the public,” he added. ”
At last week's meeting, Wire said he observed customers parking in nearby fire zones, excessive noise issues and indoor cigarette and hookah smoking. He also showed two images of what appeared to be hookah hookahs, screenshots taken on Dec. 17 and Feb. 15, that appeared to be Instagram posts tagging the restaurant.
“Live entertainment is causing significant problems for nearby residents,” Wire said.
Attorney Steve Mattia, who represented the owners at the hearing, said a manager is on site every day and resolves any problems that arise. He said the restaurant has made good on its promise to hire security, towing and valet services, and the owners are allowing nearby Anthony's Fish Grotto and Best Western and restaurant valet drivers to park cars on their property. He added that he has a contract to allow it.
“We hope that Congress understands that, like other companies, we will be notified of any violations and correct them,” Mattis said. “It appears that no violations have occurred since the interim agreement was signed.”
Santos said the owners of The Charcoal House have worked with city officials to meet all established deadlines and requests, and the restaurant has resolved all items found during routine life and fire safety inspections. Stated. An Oct. 18, 2023, Heartland Fire and Rescue Department report states the department “determined that there are no life or fire safety violations at this time.”
On Tuesday, council voted 4-1 in favor of the permit, with Vice Mayor Laura Lothian voting against it.