Encinitas Council Approves Minor Use Permit for West Park Parking Study

The City of Encinitas is set to approve a significant minor use permit for the Encinitas West Park project, following a recent zoning administrative hearing held on August 12, 2025. The proposal, presented by Associate Planner Fran Carr, involves a change in the tenant mix of an existing commercial building located at 171 Saxony Road, shifting towards a greater emphasis on medical office space.

The project will not expand the building's square footage or alter its exterior features. Instead, it aims to increase the medical tenant space to 16,795 square feet, which will account for approximately 64.8% of the total building area. This change is expected to generate a need for 12 additional parking spaces. However, the applicant's parking analysis indicates that the property currently has a surplus of 33 parking spaces, allowing for the proposed changes without any adverse impact on parking availability.

The hearing revealed no public opposition, as there were no comments received during the Community Planning Process meeting or following the legal notice. The project aligns with the city's general plan and municipal code, ensuring that it meets all necessary development standards for the office professional zone.

With the staff recommending approval, the decision is anticipated to be finalized in the coming days. This project is expected to enhance the local healthcare landscape while maintaining adequate parking and compliance with city regulations, reflecting a proactive approach to community needs in Encinitas.