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Planning Commission receives mural file for Nikki Sports at 3537 Tweedy Boulevard
Summary
The South Gate Planning Commission received and filed a proposed World Cup–themed mural for Nikki Sports at 3537 Tweedy Boulevard. Staff recommended a CEQA Class 1 exemption and listed conditions, including an applicant self-imposed removal date of Jan. 31, 2027; the commission's role is advisory to staff for sign permits.
The South Gate Planning Commission on May 5 received and filed a proposal to paint a large soccer-themed mural on the west wall of Nikki Sports at 3537 Tweedy Boulevard.
Joshua Valdez, the city’s associate planner, told commissioners the muralist is Sebastian Oyarzabal and the applicant is Lorena Melendez acting on behalf of Nikki Sports. Valdez said staff determined the item is a receiving-file matter under the municipal code and recommended a categorical exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act under CEQA Guidelines §15301 (existing facilities), because the project involves only painting an exterior wall with no structural expansion. Staff noted the applicant included a self-imposed removal date of January 31, 2027, and proposed conditions covering graffiti removal, maintenance, and review of related sign permits.
Luis Soriano, CEO of Nikki Sports, told the commission the business has served South Gate for decades and described the mural as a community-minded piece timed for the FIFA World Cup. “This mural was meant to inspire pride in our city and celebrate the excitement of the upcoming World Cup,” Soriano said, asking the city to work cooperatively with the applicant.
Staff read an emailed critique from Mario Dominguez urging the city to consider other regional art groups (he cited Downey organizations) and to seek higher-quality or more locally vetted artists. Valdez reiterated that, under the city code, murals are treated as a sign-subcategory that requires a sign permit issued at the staff level; the Planning Commission’s review is advisory, giving commissioners a chance to comment before staff issues the permit.
Commissioners acknowledged the limits of the commission’s authority but asked staff to clarify and streamline front-end procedures so future mural proposals receive earlier feedback and community input. After brief discussion the commission moved to receive and file the mural receiving file; the motion passed by roll call.
Next steps: staff will consider the commission’s comments as it processes the required sign permit and implements the conditions of approval, including the applicant’s removal commitment; the receive-and-file action does not itself grant a sign permit.
