Staff reports mixed progress on local development sites; hotel decision due by October, shopping-center interest increasing

City staff provided updates on multiple local development projects and commercial property prospects during the commission meeting.

Hotel site near El Pollo Loco: Staff said the hotel project that was approved in February 2019 received extensions and now faces a final deadline; staff indicated a final decision or activity is expected by October. Earlier approvals and permit pulls have occurred, but several conditions remain incomplete and the developer has sought time extensions; staff said no additional time beyond the October deadline is expected.

Buena Vista/Huntington shopping center: Staff reported increased marketing activity after the primary owner adopted a new marketing plan and brokerage this spring. City staff said there has been significantly more activity since the owner changed brokers and that staff are cautiously optimistic that positive movement at the site could occur within two to three months.

Mount Olive/Huntington (restore/thrift store): Staff said a new thrift-store tenant (Restore) plans to occupy a former Habitat/Restore location; signage and final permitting remain outstanding. Staff noted state legislation passed last year prevents cities from limiting thrift stores based on their acceptance of donations, which constrained local regulation in that area and influenced how the tenant will operate.

Animal hospital (Dr. Z): Staff reported the veterinary facility nearing final readiness: the applicant has paid required fees and permit materials are ready to be pulled, but the business owner is still finalizing a contractor. Once the contractor is selected, staff said permit issuance will proceed.

No formal actions or votes were taken; these reports were informational updates and staff indicated they would continue to monitor developer progress and return to the commission if formal actions were required.