The San Bernardino Planning Commission on Monday voted to continue consideration of a conditional‑use permit for Timeless Assisted Living, a proposed assisted‑living conversion at 2000 Ostroms Way, after commissioners raised concerns that exterior and interior work on the vacant former hotel had been carried out before the project was entitled.

Staff told the commission the project — a proposed conversion of an existing 4‑story, 66,373‑square‑foot structure into an assisted‑living facility — would be CEQA‑exempt as an existing facility and recommended approval subject to conditions. Applicant representatives, including Fidel Padua, the company’s chief operating officer, said the work completed to date is cosmetic, that fire‑suppression and alarm permits are in process, and that the company will apply for state licensing through the Department of Social Services.

Several commissioners pressed staff and the applicant for clarity about the scope of on‑site work. Commissioner Carloni and others said veneers, railings, bathtub removals and modifications visible inside and outside the building typically require building permits and inspections. Staff said interior permit applications were under plan check and that fire permits had been submitted and were being inspected, but acknowledged they had not yet verified the full extent of interior inspections with Building & Safety.

Given the uncertainty, the commission voted to continue the item to the next meeting on April 8 and directed staff to obtain a report from Building & Safety documenting any unpermitted work, the status of inspections and required remedial measures. No formal approval or denial was taken.

The applicant said the project aims to provide affordable assisted living, 24‑hour care and local jobs, and emphasized it would seek required state and municipal approvals before operation. Commissioners asked staff to verify any active voucher placements or other city programs using motel rooms at the site and to return with a factual inspection report for the commission’s review.

Next steps: Building & Safety will inspect the property and report back. The commission will revisit the conditional‑use permit on April 8 and may impose conditions or require corrective actions depending on the inspection findings.