Commission approves claw‑machine arcade at Tokyo Central supermarket in Gardena

The Gardena Planning and Environmental Quality Commission voted 5‑0 to approve a conditional use permit allowing amusement arcade machines inside Tokyo Central supermarket at 1740 West Artesia Boulevard.

Assistant Planner Kevin Law told commissioners the application sought Conditional Use Permit CP‑3‑25 and Environmental Assessment EA‑8‑25 and is categorically exempt from CEQA review under CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 for existing facilities. Law described the site as approximately 4.6 acres with about 320 parking spaces and said the project would leave a surplus of roughly 12 parking spaces above the minimum requirement.

Law described the proposed operations as accessory to the supermarket: the first floor would include three double‑stack claw machines and one token vending machine adjacent to the restaurant area; the second floor would include 14 double‑stack claw machines and two token vending machines. Hours of operation would match the grocery store’s existing 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. schedule. Law also noted the municipal code’s proximity restriction for amusement arcades, saying the nearest similar business (Wawaqa) is roughly 2,000 feet away, well beyond the code’s 300‑foot separation requirement. Staff recommended adoption of Resolution PC‑15‑25 approving EA‑8‑25 and CP‑3‑25 subject to conditions and to file a notice of exemption.

Osam Harada, representing the applicant, described the machines as low‑cost family entertainment and said local staff service the machines one to three times per week. “Our machines provide affordable entertainment for families, students, and also the residents of all ages,” Harada said, adding that the machines can bring foot traffic that benefits nearby restaurants and shops.

Commissioner Langley asked whether bicycle racks would be available for children who come with bikes; Law said existing bicycle racks are on site and that the community development director could require additional alternative parking infrastructure if the director receives reports that more are needed. Langley also asked whether the machines might be used by children skipping school; the applicant said there is no formal monitoring plan for that use but noted similar machines operate at other locations.

Commissioner Khan moved to adopt Resolution PC‑15‑25 approving EA‑8‑25 and CP‑3‑25 subject to the recommended conditions; Chair Reitschert seconded. The commission voted 5‑0 to approve the permit. As with the other item, the chair noted the decision is final unless a written appeal and fee are filed with the city clerk within 10 calendar days or City Council calls the matter for review within that period. Staff will file a notice of exemption and monitor compliance with the permit conditions.