Planning commission approves 24-hour golf-simulator at San Gabriel plaza

The San Gabriel Planning Commission on Monday approved a conditional use permit for Gulf Envy to open a digital golf-simulator at 140 West Valley Boulevard Units 112 and 113, authorizing a roughly 3,300-square-foot facility with five open teeing areas and one private bay.

Staff described the project, planning case CUP26-003, as a recreation-oriented use within the Valley Boulevard Specific Plan and recommended approval subject to conditions, including police-recommended video surveillance and alarm systems. Staff also said the project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act under Guideline section 15301 (existing facilities).

Marlon, representing city staff, told commissioners the applicant proposes to operate 24 hours a day and that the business would be staffed during peak hours and automated between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m., with access during unstaffed hours controlled by radio-frequency identification (RFID) or membership credentials. "The proposed golf simulator will feature 5 open teeing areas and 1 private bay to host larger groups," Marlon said during the presentation.

A Gulf Envy representative explained the security and access systems, saying membership-only entry would be enforced via Bluetooth and interior readers, and describing a camera system with analytics that flags nonmembers. The representative said the company has operated locations in Covina and La Verne for more than three years and "we've had 0 incidents" there.

Commissioners expressed overall support for the business as an economic addition to Valley Boulevard but repeatedly raised concerns about safety during late-night hours and whether the proposed conditions provide sufficient response capability. One commissioner said membership controls and plaza security alleviated some concerns, while another asked whether the project would include backup power; staff said no backup generators were proposed.

Before the vote, staff requested the commission add an explicit condition addressing the proposed 24-hour operation and to clarify Condition No. 8 regarding automated entry during unstaffed hours. The commission approved the permit by roll call, recording four yes votes and one absence (Commissioner Lee). The motion passed 4-0.

The approved conditions include requirements for video surveillance, a centrally monitored alarm system, and immediate notification to police of crimes on the premises, as noted in the staff report. The applicant also confirmed that no food or alcohol will be served at the facility.

With the permit approved, Gulf Envy may proceed with permits and building modifications subject to the resolution and the listed conditions of approval. The planning commission adjourned following general commission comments.