Planning commission approves DC 36 trade school at 14930 Marquardt Avenue

The Santa Fe Springs City Planning Commission on Dec. 22 approved a conditional use permit for District Council 36 (DC 36) to establish a non‑profit trade school at 14930 Marquardt Avenue.

Economic Development Specialist Claudia Jimenez told commissioners the project would use an existing 30,833‑square‑foot industrial building on about 2.45 acres and provide hands‑on training for installation and dismantling of exhibition and convention displays. Jimenez said daily instruction would typically include two 4‑hour class blocks, averaging about 40 apprentices per day with a maximum capacity of 60; staffing would include administrative staff and JATC instructors.

Staff recommended approval after finding the project categorically exempt under CEQA for use of an existing facility. Jimenez said the applicant will provide 122 parking stalls—exceeding the city minimum of 69—and that the proposal includes site improvements such as restriping, a new trash enclosure, enhanced security, ADA access and fire lane circulation approved by the fire department. "The proposed trade school would operate in compliance" with the municipal code and is designed to minimize noise and other land‑use impacts, Jimenez said.

Commissioners asked for clarifications on the parking ratio and hours. Jimenez responded that the project meets the city’s parking standards and that evening use is limited to monthly meetings and occasional supplemental training. No members of the public spoke.

A motion to approve the conditional use permit (Resolution No. 309‑2025) passed by roll call vote, 4–0. The commission announced a 14‑day appeal period.

Next steps: Because this was a conditional use permit with a CEQA exemption for an existing facility, staff will proceed with plan check and permit issuance if no appeal is filed.