Planning commission approves Memorial 5K at Christmas Tree Corner for May 25

The Big Bear City Planning Commission on April 16 approved a major special event permit for a Memorial 5K to start and finish at Christmas Tree Corner on Sunday, May 25, 2025.

Staff presented the application for Major Special Event 2024-143, submitted by Matt Smith of Open Air Big Bear. Staff said the event would run 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., with setup May 24 and cleanup by 10 a.m. on May 25. The route uses several city streets and, according to the applicant, is designed to avoid a midcourse Village Drive crossing used in prior years. Staff classified the event as a "major special event with small impact," noted no street closures were proposed, and recommended approval after finding the request consistent with the Big Bear Lake Development Code and the general plan. Staff also advised that the request is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act under CEQA section 15304 (Class 4).

Applicant Matt Smith told the commission this is a Memorial Day commemoration that includes a public flag presentation and the national anthem; he said the route stays behind the village neighborhood and is intended to minimize traffic crossings. Staff and commissioners reported no public correspondence had been received on the item.

Commissioner motioned and the commission adopted the resolution (recorded as Resolution No. 2025-02) approving Major Special Event Application 2024-143 and finding the request exempt from CEQA; the roll call vote recorded three votes in favor and none against. The resolution will take effect in 10 days unless appealed to the planning division.