The Hanford City Planning Commission on Oct. 14 voted to adopt Resolution No. 2025-28, approving Conditional Use Permit No. 50-25 to allow an indoor commercial playground for children ages 0–5 at 2461 East Lacey Boulevard, Suite 109, within a regional commercial shopping center.

Staff said the proposed business would operate inside an existing suite near Costco, with interior renovations to provide a party play area, two small party rooms, an entry viewing area, storage, and a restroom. “All requirements of the Regional Commercial Zone District have been met,” staff said, and recommended adoption of the resolution. Staff also said the project is categorically exempt from further environmental review under CEQA Guideline 15301 for existing facilities.

The commission’s recommendation follows the applicant’s operational statement describing booking options (hourly sessions, punch cards, monthly memberships), controls on daily ticketing to maintain occupancy limits, wristbands for reentry tracking, designated special-needs hours, and on-site certified staff with first-aid/CPR training. Staff said the fire department requested conspicuous signage that “children must be attended at all times by parents.”

Commission discussion focused on parking and sanitation. Commissioners were told customers would use shared parking within the shopping center rather than a single parcel’s lot. One commissioner asked whether posted occupancy notices required by building and fire codes would be provided; staff confirmed occupancy signage and code-compliant fixtures would be required through the building-permit process. Another commissioner expressed concern that a facility serving children ages 0–5 with only one restroom may face intensive cleaning needs and suggested the applicant consider an additional utility sink for sanitation.

No members of the public spoke for or against the proposal during the public comment period. After closing the public hearing, the commission moved and seconded adoption of Resolution No. 2025-28. The roll-call vote was unanimous: Commissioner Norris — yes; Vice Chair Douglas — yes; Commissioner Nelson — yes; Commissioner Curtis — yes; Chair Ham — yes.

The resolution approves the conditional use permit with the conditions described in the staff report and with the requirement that building permits and any required inspections be completed before interior construction or occupancy.

Staff contact information and the full staff report, including the notice of exemption under CEQA Guideline 15301, are on file with the Community Development Department.