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Commission backs indoor-amusement permit for gift shop with five coin machines
Summary
The commission voted to recommend approval to City Council of an SUP allowing five coin-operated machines at Paris Gifts (3225 Harwood Road), triggering indoor-amusement regulations and registration with the city; commissioners discussed parking and late closing hours before approving.
The Bedford Planning and Zoning Commission on Aug. 14 recommended that City Council approve a specific-use permit (SUP25-8) to allow five coin-operated machines at Paris Gifts, a retail gift shop proposed for 3225 Harwood Road, Suite F.
City planner Enrique explained the proposed use: the suite currently has a certificate of occupancy for retail and would add five coin-operated machines, which triggers the city’s definition of an indoor amusement center. The application listed one on-site employee and proposed daily hours of 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Shauna, representing Paris Gifts and owner George Garcia, told the commission the machines are intended to provide a brief activity for shoppers’ companions and would be monitored; she said the owner already has a state permit for the machines and would enforce the state’s age requirement. “He has been issued the state permit as well as these stickers for each machine,” she said.
Commissioners asked staff about parking calculations. Enrique said the site plan shows 39 parking spaces; the retail requirement would be 33 spaces, and the proposed mix of retail with the accessory amusement machines is being treated as an accessory use. He noted that if the location were treated purely as an indoor-amusement use, the parking ratio would change and could require more spaces.
Several commissioners expressed concern about hours and the proximity of LD Bell High School. One commissioner suggested limiting closing times to 9 p.m. to match other businesses; others noted that later hours can serve residents who finish shifts later and that time-limited conditions are enforceable. Commissioners also discussed the risk of teenagers from the nearby school attempting to use the machines; the applicant said IDs would be required for machine use.
After discussion, the commission moved and seconded approval of SUP25-8 as presented. The motion passed and the item will be forwarded to City Council for final approval.
Enrique noted that, independent of zoning approval, registration of coin-operated machines and submission of state licensing information are administrative steps required through the city secretary’s office under Chapter 14 of the city code.
