Planning commission approves live‑music event center and on‑site alcohol sales in downtown Bierman Building

The Lincoln Planning Commission on July 23 approved a conditional use permit (CUP) and a public convenience and necessity (PCN) determination enabling a proposed live‑music event center to operate at 645 Fifth Street (the Bierman Building) and to seek a Type 90 license from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control for on‑site sale and consumption of beer, wine and distilled spirits.

Senior Planner Efren Sanchez described the applicants’ plan to use the Second Floor Ballroom for ticketed performances, private events and weddings. The proposed facility is a three‑story, 12,000‑square‑foot existing building in downtown Lincoln. Staff reported a proposed seating capacity for events of 150 guests; under the municipal code that would normally require 32 off‑street parking spaces (one per five seats plus employee spaces), but because the project involves an existing building with no physical expansion the parking requirement did not apply. Staff noted nearby downtown parking, including a public lot at 439 F Street with approximately 68 spaces.

Sanchez said the Police Chief reviewed records and found no heightened pattern of alcohol‑related problems at the site. Staff also reported 20 active alcohol licenses in the downtown area and evaluated proximity to sensitive uses: the site is roughly 400 feet from the nearest church and about 0.3 miles from the nearest park and school.

Commissioners sought details on hours and frequency. Staff said the applicant initially proposed primarily weekend events, generally 9 a.m. to midnight for many events, with early ramping at about 25 events per year and the potential to increase to a much larger number over time (staff cited an upper figure during discussion). The commission discussed whether to fix hours in the permit but staff and the city attorney noted the drafted conditions do not impose a specific closing hour; instead, condition language requires all patrons to exit the building within one hour of close of business. Commissioners expressed support for operational flexibility to allow weddings and occasional special events to run later; a friendly amendment to clarify operation times could be included but was not required to approve the permit.

Applicant Steven Pagano (Rockstar Academy) said daytime events (luncheons, rehearsal use) and occasional late‑night special events (e.g., New Year’s Eve) are anticipated. After public hearing (no public speakers) the commission moved and seconded to adopt a CEQA exemption and approve the CUP and PCN; the roll call vote was unanimous, 7‑0.

Next steps: the applicant will pursue ABC licensing (Type 90) and comply with the CUP conditions; the commission noted staff will monitor operations for any required future modifications.