Residents Oppose Hermosa Avenue Project Over Parking and Short-Term Rental Concerns

During the Hermosa Beach Planning Commission meeting on July 28, 2025, residents raised significant concerns regarding a proposed project at 54 Hermosa Avenue, which includes the construction of a mixed-use development. The meeting highlighted issues related to parking, zoning regulations, and potential impacts on the community.

One of the primary concerns voiced by residents was the classification of part of the project as an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). Local resident Rachel Hayes pointed out that the municipal code only permits certain types of ADUs, and she questioned whether the project was attempting to bypass parking requirements by labeling a second unit as an ADU. Hayes emphasized that the project should be treated as a new construction duplex, necessitating adequate off-street parking spaces. With parking already strained in Hermosa Beach, residents fear that the proposed three parking spaces for two residential units and a commercial unit would exacerbate the existing shortage.

Additionally, concerns were raised about the potential for short-term vacation rentals at the new development. Hayes noted that the applicant has a history of managing properties that violate local short-term rental ordinances, leading to noise complaints from neighbors. Residents requested that the approval conditions explicitly prohibit short-term rentals to protect the neighborhood's character.

The commercial aspect of the project also drew scrutiny. Residents argued that the parking requirements for the commercial space should align with those of office use, similar to the adjacent property, which was required to provide more parking for its commercial operations. This concern reflects a broader apprehension about how the new development might affect local traffic and parking availability.

Finally, the adequacy of trash storage for the project was questioned. The proposed trash area appeared insufficient to accommodate the necessary waste bins, raising concerns about sanitation and neighborhood aesthetics.

As the Planning Commission considers these issues, the outcomes of this meeting will have lasting implications for the Hermosa Beach community, particularly regarding housing density, parking, and the preservation of neighborhood quality. Residents are eager for a resolution that addresses their concerns while balancing development needs.