Planning commission approves wine-tasting room at 309 Capitola Avenue

The Capitola Planning Commission on March 3 approved a conditional use permit and sign permit allowing a wine-tasting room and retail outlet at 309 Capitola Avenue.

The commission voted to approve the permit after a staff presentation and a brief statement from the applicants, Joseph and Sam Miller, who said they operate a winery on the city's West Side and seek a small tasting-and-retail space in the village.

Staff planner Brian Fraylik described the proposal as a small tenant space of about 1,100 square feet with the customer/tasting area limited to roughly 120 square feet under the applicant's plan (the code allows up to 160 square feet for the type of service proposed). Fraylik said the business intends to operate primarily as a pick-up and tasting location tied to a wine-subscription model; the applicants plan loose furniture, a modular bar and rack storage and did not propose structural changes requiring building permits at this time.

Applicant Joseph Miller told the commission the tasting room is intended to promote the winery and draw visitors to Capitola: "We've been looking literally for years for a good site for a tasting room and we think 309 Capitola is the jackpot," he said, noting that many of his customers travel to the area and patronize local restaurants and shops.

The Planning Commission made the five standard findings required for a conditional use permit and approved the use and sign permit with the conditions recommended in staff's report, including adherence to the village-zone sign standards, limits on customer-floor area consistent with the application and compliance with building and fire codes if interior alterations trigger permits.

Vote and next steps The motion to approve was made and seconded during the meeting; the roll-call vote was recorded as: Commissioner Que, aye; Commissioner Westman, aye; Vice Chair Christensen, aye; Chair Estee, aye. The permit is approved and the applicants may proceed with any required building permits and licensing (the applicants described pursuing a duplicate Type 02 license associated with their winery).

Ending The tasting room is expected to occupy an existing storefront near the California Avenue and Capitola Avenue intersection. Staff will monitor any subsequent building-permit submittals and ensure the approved conditions are met prior to operation.