Planning commission backs 35-unit downtown apartments, citing state density-bonus rules

ESCONDIDO, Calif. — The Escondido Planning Commission on May 27 recommended the City Council approve a 35-unit apartment project at 339 South Escondido Boulevard (PL25-0149), voting 4–1 to forward the measure with a staff recommendation for approval.

The applicant, represented at the hearing by property owner Kyle Carruthers and architect Sebastian Bingo Bingoloya of Steve Dalton Architects, seeks a planned development permit, design review and a state density bonus to increase the site’s allowed units from 23 to 35. The project would provide four deed-restricted very-low-income units, demolish an existing mixed-use building that contains four residential units, and supply 16 off-street parking spaces voluntarily. Planning staff recommended adoption of Resolution 2025-06 to forward approval to the City Council.

The commission’s approval follows staff findings that the project is consistent with the Downtown Specific Plan (Southern Gateway land-use district), that it qualifies for a categorical exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Section 15332, and that state density-bonus law allows the requested concessions and incentives. Planning staff told commissioners…