Commission approves four‑building expansion and promenade at The Shops at Mission Viejo

The Planning & Transportation Commission voted to approve a conditional use permit for a four‑building expansion at The Shops at Mission Viejo (PDP2024‑0008). Senior planner Martin presented the staff report describing four buildings on 2.5 acres east of the food court — a two‑story furniture showroom (Our House), a standalone restaurant (North Italia), a three‑tenant inline building including Pacific Catch, and a small retail pad — and recommended approval with conditions.

Jocelyn Gubler, vice president of real estate development for Simon Property Group, said Simon is focused on food-and‑beverage and furniture tenants for the outdoor promenade and committed to working with city staff on safety, parking and landscaping conditions. "We have absolutely no problem continuing to work with staff and adjust our parking program should the need arise," Gubler said. She also confirmed the center has installed 19 cameras and will add four more cameras for the new promenade area tied into the mall surveillance system.

Staff noted the project is approximately 60% leased, meets setback, floor‑area and landscaping standards, and submitted environmental documentation supporting infill development status. The applicant reported a parking study showing roughly 36% occupancy and a 10‑stall deficiency; staff and commissioners discussed mitigation including scaling back fleet storage permits and using existing agreements with the Leonard Cancer Institute for overflow parking. Following public comment and commissioner questions, the commission moved, seconded and the chair announced the conditional use permit passed.