The Yucca Valley Planning Commission reviewed and conditionally approved Chipotle, and Star Cafe permits with stipulations, and discussed other working projects in the Land Development update. Commissioner Brad Napientek, who is moving to Arizona said goodbye to Staff and fellow Commissioners.
After approving the Consent Agenda, the Commissioners reviewed the plans for the construction and development of Chipotle, located at 57590 Twentynine Palms Highway, south of Vons, in the parking lot. The agenda for the 2,313-square-foot dine-in with a drive-thru includes plans for screens to reduce light glare for oncoming traffic, eight parking spaces, and right-of-way expansion for the widening of the highway. Commissioner Brad Napientek suggested a change to the exterior colors. The plans were approved with the stipulation that the design firm would return for signage and color approval. Commissioner Clint Stoker asked for more consistency in the plans, sighting some inconsistencies. Todd Siegel – CUP of Chipotle, was online with Owner/developer Paul Gross Design Manager.
The Planning Commission also reviewed the change of use and operation plans for the Star Café, a restaurant, retail store, coffee shop, and bar at 55761 Twentynine Palms Highway: the project includes onsite and street parking spaces. Signage was not presented at this time. Natalia Ribeiro, Senior Designer, represented the owner John Sofia. Vice Chari, Clint Stoker, raised questions about parking spaces accurately representing the amount of seating presented in the plans. The project was approved with the condition the approved seating and parking are in place.
In the final phase of the meeting, Staff presented the Land Development report. Projects in the works are Starbucks west, located near Aki Sushi and Desert Nest, the Wine and Rock, which is wrapping up, and Blue Star RV.
The meeting ended as Commissioner Brad Napientek said goodbye to Staff and his fellow Commissioners. Commissioner Napientek and his family are moving to Chandler, Arizona.
On a final note, Staff will update the Commissioners on the Federal decision for the Joshua Tree at the next meeting, and the Yucca Valley Town Council will have a formal recognition presentation for Commissioner Napientek.
