Commission votes to begin local landmark designation for Aztec Theater

At a regular meeting, commissioners voted to begin the process of designating the Aztec Theater as a local historic landmark after planning staff outlined preservation tools available to the city.

Planning staff told the commission there is no specific local historic- preservation ordinance in place beyond the Mills Act, but that state processes and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) can provide avenues for review and protection. "There is nothing currently in place besides the Mills Act," planning staff said, adding that the department has flagged the property so permit activity is locked while research continues. Staff provided background that the theater — originally established in 1922 as the Columbus Theater — has cultural and architectural significance tied to Latino and Mexican‑American entertainment in the Inland Empire.

Commissioner Anthony moved to initiate a local designation process for the property and Commissioner Stephen seconded. Anthony said he wanted the commission to "move forward on designating this as a historical landmark." Commissioners asked staff whether designation would remove owner rights; planning staff replied designation generally restricts how a property can be developed but does not automatically remove ownership or preclude businesses from operating on the site.

The motion passed; the chair announced the action as "Passed." The transcript records no roll-call tally or individual votes.

Staff told commissioners the address on file is 708 North Mount Vernon Avenue and recommended legal involvement to clarify limits and possible pushback from the private owner before further steps. Planning staff also noted that nomination to a state registry, or a local landmark designation, could trigger environmental- or cultural-resource review under CEQA that may identify findings of significance and opportunities to protect architectural features such as facades and marquee structures.

Commission discussion also covered practical concerns: the theater has been gutted and previously was used as a church; interior features and extensive pigeon damage mean any restoration or preservation work will likely require significant funding. Commissioners discussed possibilities for foundations or partnerships to raise renovation funds and noted the potential for repurposing the theater as a community cultural asset.

Next steps described in the meeting: staff will coordinate with the city attorney/legal department to outline the designation process and any required environmental review; the commission can provide input and vote on formal nomination language in a future agenda item.

The commission adjourned at 4:44 p.m.