Zoning administrator approves 4-year extension for six-lot Via Honda subdivision map

Escondido Zoning Administrator Veronica Morones on Sept. 24 approved a four-year extension of time for the tentative subdivision map known in planning records as SUB17-0030 (referred to in the hearing as Via Honda), which will set a new expiration date of Dec. 21, 2027.

Principal planner (identified in the hearing as "Tanner") told the zoning administrator the original planning commission approval (Resolution 2019-26) adopted an initial study and a mitigated negative declaration and that the applicant requested an extension as allowed by Escondido Municipal Code Chapter 32. Staff said cumulative extensions may not exceed six years; the four-year extension granted on Sept. 24 leaves two years available for future extension requests.

Planner Tanner summarized the approved tentative map: a six-lot subdivision with lot sizes ranging from about 20,087 to 21,887 square feet. Tanner said the applicant does not propose any changes to the certified tentative map and that staff determined no subsequent environmental review is required because there have been no changes to the scope of approval since the initial study and mitigated negative declaration.

Staff also noted one technical condition: the engineering division requested the applicant provide an updated general drainage report that includes the adjacent parcel to the east, which was developed after the original drainage study. Tanner and staff said the revised condition (identified in the draft as condition F.6) asks the applicant to provide an updated drainage study to accurately reflect current conditions.

Applicant representative Chintu Patel confirmed he had reviewed the conditions of approval and agreed. Planner Tanner explained that, after a 10-day appeal period, the applicant may proceed with design-review submittals; staff advised the applicant that design-review materials may be submitted "at risk" during the appeal period with an at-risk letter acknowledging possible appeal.

Outcome and next steps: Veronica Morones moved to approve the four-year extension; the extension was granted at the hearing and the new permit expiration is Dec. 21, 2027. Staff will work with the applicant to ensure the updated drainage report required by condition F.6 is submitted and to guide next steps for design-review submittals.