Planning Commission grants 12 month extension for Mackinac Hotel site plan review

The Placerville Planning Commission has taken a significant step towards revitalizing local hospitality with a unanimous decision to grant a 12-month extension for the Mackinac Hotel site plan review. This extension comes as the commission recognizes the pressing need for hotel accommodations in the community, which has been a topic of ongoing discussion.

During the meeting, staff member Miss Kendrick presented the case for the extension, noting that the hotel developers had not altered their proposal since their last request. The commission expressed a desire to streamline the process and avoid future applications for short extensions, but legal constraints limited them to a maximum of 12 months. "We want to encourage hotel space that's desperate for need in this community," emphasized one commissioner, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

The discussion also touched on the challenges faced by the planning department, which has seen budget cuts that have halved its resources. This has raised concerns about the efficiency of processing applications and the potential for delays in future projects. The commission considered the possibility of amending city ordinances to allow for longer extensions, but ultimately decided against it for now, believing the current system would suffice.

Public comments reinforced the commission's authority to propose changes to city codes, urging members to take initiative in addressing any perceived issues. The meeting concluded with a motion to adopt the staff report and approve the extension, marking a hopeful moment for the Mackinac Hotel project and the community's hospitality landscape. The commission's decision reflects a commitment to fostering development and addressing local needs, setting the stage for potential growth in Placerville's tourism sector.