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Calistoga planning commission approves conversion of 1329 Lincoln Avenue to two-unit inn
Summary
The Calistoga Planning Commission on July 24 approved use permit UP 2024-1 to convert a second-story office and a detached accessory building at 1329 Lincoln Avenue into a two-unit inn. Staff found the project consistent with the city general plan; commissioners praised the downtown economic benefits while a public commenter questioned parking in-lieu funds.
The Calistoga Planning Commission on July 24 approved a use permit to convert an existing second-story office and a detached accessory building at 1329 Lincoln Avenue into a two-unit inn.
Assistant Planner Lauren Clark told commissioners that the application, identified in the staff report as UP 2024-1, would convert the primary structure’s second story and a two-story accessory building. Clark said the accessory building had been approved as a caretaker’s/live-work unit in 2017 but had been vacant since 2022, and that staff had found the project consistent with the Calistoga General Plan and the Calistoga Municipal Code. "Staff recommend that the planning commission approve UP 2024-1," Clark said.
The commission’s questions focused on parking and operational details. Clark said the draft resolution requires the applicant to purchase one additional parking space in-lieu of on-site parking; she also confirmed that two parking spaces had previously been purchased when the accessory building was approved in 2017. Clark explained the city holds in-lieu payments to fund future downtown parking improvements rather than assigning specific existing spaces to applicants.
Applicant Nick, who identified himself as an owner through Jericho Canyon Vineyard, described the project as a downtown-focused lodging option intended to draw visitors back to Lincoln Avenue. "We're trying to bring people back into the downtown area," he said, adding that the units are configured more for family stays than for multiple-car parties. He told commissioners the second-story office had been vacant for about two years and would need only modest interior work for the conversion.
A member of the public, Rick Kizer, voiced support for the project but urged the city to ensure parking in-lieu funds are used as intended. "I think it's a great addition to Lincoln Avenue," Kizer said, "...the parking, you know...I think there are monies that just get squirreled away and don't get utilized the way they're intended to be utilized," and he urged development of a parking plan that results in actual spaces.
Commissioners said establishing parking policy is a council responsibility but expressed interest in a stronger downtown parking program. After commissioners voiced support for the proposal, Commissioner Towey moved to approve UP 2024-1; Commissioner Vaughn seconded. The commission voted unanimously (Towey: yes; Vaughn: yes; Chair Wilks: yes) to approve the permit.
Staff noted no immediate items are scheduled for upcoming meetings and the planning director was absent that night. The commission adjourned to the next posted meeting.
