In a recent Planning Commission meeting held on December 11, 2023, in San Gabriel, California, discussions centered around the proposal for a local restaurant, Sun Yung Dang, to extend its hours of operation to 24 hours. This move is expected to enhance late-night food options in the area, which has been lacking such services. Public comments reflected strong community support, with one resident expressing enthusiasm for the extended hours, citing a preference for the restaurant over other fast-food options in the vicinity.

However, the meeting also highlighted concerns regarding cleanliness and safety in the area surrounding the restaurant. Residents raised issues about trash accumulation and rodent problems, attributing these concerns to the property management rather than the restaurant itself. One neighbor, who lives directly behind Sun Yung Dang, noted that while they appreciate the restaurant's offerings, there are ongoing issues with trash management that need to be addressed to maintain a healthy environment.

Commissioners acknowledged these concerns and discussed the role of Athens Services, the waste management provider for the area, which reportedly does not pick up trash on Sundays. This gap in service contributes to the accumulation of waste, particularly over busy weekends. The commission agreed to pass along residents' concerns to neighborhood improvement services, aiming to encourage better management practices from the property owners and waste service providers.

As the commission closed the public hearing, they expressed gratitude to local businesses for their contributions to the community, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clean and safe environment for both residents and patrons. The discussions from this meeting underscore the ongoing efforts to balance business growth with community well-being in San Gabriel.