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Planning commission approves CUP for Blueprint LA studio at 7 PCH amid debate over hours, parking and zoning rules
Summary
The commission unanimously approved a conditional use permit for Blueprint LA to operate a reservation‑based fitness studio in an existing 5,123 sq ft space at 7 Pacific Coast Highway, while commissioners and a caller urged the city to reconsider SPA 7 rules that require public hearings for low‑impact fitness businesses.
The Hermosa Beach Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve a conditional use permit (CUP 26‑04) allowing Blueprint LA to operate a reservation‑based fitness studio at 7 Pacific Coast Highway in SPA 7.
Planner Angelique Solis told the commission the studio would occupy the existing 5,123‑square‑foot commercial building (former retail use), would not alter the building’s exterior or interior for this permit, and that the application characterizes classes as reservation‑based and capped in the application at 20 participants. Solis said staff recommended adoption of a CEQA exemption for conversion of an existing commercial space and approval of the draft resolution to adopt the CUP.
Applicant Kyle Flynn introduced himself to the commission: "My name is Kyle Flynn, owner of the Blue Pernelli," and described nearly 20 years in the fitness industry, a focus on "mind, body, spirit" and a desire to build community in Hermosa Beach. Flynn said the site fit the business’s existing footprint and culture.
Online public comment supported the CUP but raised zoning concerns. Laura Pena, who called in in support, urged the commission to revisit how the city treats small fitness and wellness studios in SPA 7. "Small fitness, yoga, Pilates, training should not be treated the same as a theater, a convention hall, a church, or a larger assembly venue," Pena said, arguing that assembly‑type categorization imposes extra cost and time; she asked that low‑impact studios be allowed by right or handled at the director level with tailored rules tied to impacts like noise and parking.
Commissioners queried hours, capacity and parking. The applicant’s written operations narrative proposed limited hours (morning and evening blocks), but staff said those hours were not memorialized in the conditions of approval to provide operational flexibility. A commissioner noted the site has seven on‑site parking spaces and expressed concern about class turnover if full classes arrive and depart in short windows; staff reiterated that memorializing strict hours has been avoided to allow businesses to adapt and that operational problems can return to the commission if they materialize.
Commissioner Hirsch moved to approve the CUP; Vice Chair Flaherty seconded, and a roll‑call vote recorded unanimous support. The commission congratulated the applicant and encouraged a prompt opening.
What’s next: With the CUP approved, the applicant may proceed with opening steps subject to any conditions in the adopted resolution; staff and commissioners flagged broader zoning‑code work this summer that may revisit how similar fitness uses are regulated.
(Reporting note: quotes and motions reflect the planning commission transcript.)
