Board OKs boarding-kennel permit; applicant says actual capacity will be lower than filed

Planner Chris Benson presented a city staff recommendation to approve a conditional-use permit that would allow a boarding kennel at 4529 Arrowhead Ridge Drive Southeast, a property currently operating as La Palta Spa Daycamp and resort. Benson noted the business has an active city registration and that approval would require the applicant to update the professional-animal permit with the city's Animal Resource Center.

"This application was reviewed and approved by city staff on 05/16/2024 and will have to be updated to show this included activity of being operating as a boarding kennel—pending approval of a conditional use permit," Chris Benson told the board.

Applicant Andrew Vargas Segura, sworn for testimony, said the total number of animals the application originally listed would be reduced because of staffing limits. "Initially we said that it would be 70. We're probably looking more like around 50," Vargas Segura said, and clarified that the total capacity would include grooming, doggy day camp and boarding. He added the boarding component itself would have a lower cap, and later confirmed in response to board questions that "boarding specifically, it will be indoors" at night with enclosed, shaded outdoor space available during the day.

Board members asked for clarification about capacity and overnight housing; the applicant confirmed the daytime outdoor areas are enclosed and shaded and that most activity is indoors. After those clarifications, a motion to approve the conditional-use permit was moved and seconded; the board voted by roll call to approve the item.

Staff recommended findings and conditions remain in place; the applicant must complete any required inspections and update the animal permit before operating as a boarding kennel.