By Eric Heinz
Much to the chagrin of some residents of a south El Camino Real neighborhood but relief of the developer, Don Kappauf, the La Ventura Event Center construction projects appeal was approved by San Clemente City Council during its Tuesday meeting.
The council approved the one-story event center’s permit, planned for 2316 South El Camino Real, on a 4-0-1 vote, with councilman Tim Brown absent.
The event center has been delayed through council action since 2009, much of which was due to questionable compliance issues and local residents’ backlash. Additionally, the parking issues surrounding the center have drawn the ire of residents, who say they said they are already inundated by other business’ parking issues in the area. People against the project also voiced concerns of consistent noise that could come from events.
The center is planned to be 5,505 square feet with a 4-to-1 parking lot ratio.
During the meeting, Mayor Chris Hamm acknowledged the dissent from the public but said because the project is in compliance with city ordinance and had been administered through the proper channels he said he is in favor of the center.
Proponents who spoke about the proposed center said the project would allow for more affordable options for indoor events and propel more business in San Clemente.
More information on the project can be found on the city’s website in the packets section, which includes about 175 documents related to the center.
Although the council approved those issues, they tabled the permit for construction of a 6-foot fence in the plan that would surround the facility because they said they needed more information on the specifics of it. It was also mentioned during public hearing that a lawsuit has been filed to try to stop the fence from being built. Council expects to revisit the issue in four to six weeks.
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