Planning panel approves secondhand retail shop at 323 North San Marino Avenue

The San Gabriel Planning Commission on Nov. 10 approved a conditional use permit to allow a secondhand retail store at 323 North San Marino Avenue. Staff said the proposed business is a relocation from Sierra Madre and recommended approval with standard conditions to ensure compatibility with surrounding residential and school uses.

Assistant Director Samantha Tuasart told the commission the site sits on an approximately 5,700‑square‑foot lot developed with a one‑story commercial building (about 4,100 square feet) built in 1948 and zoned C‑1. The property is adjacent to single‑family (R‑1) lots to the north and west and Washington Elementary School to the east. Staff said the proposed hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and closed on Sundays, and that the project was reviewed under the California Environmental Quality Act and determined to qualify for a Class 1 (existing facilities) exemption.

On the issue of parking, staff reported there is no on‑site parking requirement because the building is already constructed and the proposed retail use is consistent with the prior retail use on the site. The San Gabriel Police Department recommended conditions of approval including installation of surveillance cameras and an alarm system and reserved the right to request reevaluation for public safety concerns in the future.

Two members of the public spoke. Landlord Gary Anderson said he and his wife have owned the location for 10 years, recounted a history of vacant tenancies and urged approval, saying in part, "San Gabriel does not have any other thrift shops or secondhand stores" (public comment). Nearby business owner Modesta Gonzales, who runs Mita Boutique next door, said she was concerned that a similar women's‑clothing offering adjacent to her shop could harm her business; she said she did not know the applicant and wished them well but questioned the proximity of a competing store.

Commissioners said they welcomed occupancy of a long‑vacant property and emphasized efforts to make the use compatible with neighbors and the nearby school. Commissioner Carney moved to approve and Commissioner Lee seconded; a roll call vote recorded three yes votes from the members present and the motion passed.

The permit was approved with the staff‑recommended conditions; staff noted the application can be brought back for reconsideration should concerns arise. The item will be added to the planning department files with the case references noted in the staff presentation.