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CUP No. 2022-05 – Lotus Restaurant <br />June 13, 2022 <br />Page 3 <br />2 <br />6 <br />0 <br />6 <br />Project Analysis <br />CUP requests are governed by Section 41-638 of the SAMC. CUPs may be granted when <br />it can be shown that the proposed project will not adversely impact the community. If <br />these findings can be made, then it is appropriate to grant the CUP. Conversely, the <br />inability to make these findings would result in a denial. The purpose of regulating <br />establishments that sell alcoholic beverages is to set forth operating practices and <br />procedures and to minimize impacts to surrounding areas. Staff has reviewed the <br />applicant’s request for the sale and consumption of beer and wine, and has determined <br />the proposed CUPs will not be detrimental to the health, safety, and welfare of the <br />community. <br />As a locally-based establishment, the Lotus Restaurant would provide a unique dining <br />experience with an ancillary service to their customers by allowing them to purchase a <br />variety of alcoholic beverages with their meal. It would also allow the subject <br />establishment to be economically viable and compete with full-service establishments that <br />offer similar services to their patrons. <br />The subject establishment is surrounded by commercial uses to the west, south and east <br />across the adjacent parking lot, making the proposed project compatible with adjacent <br />land uses. Although there are single-family residences nearby, the proposed use will <br />have a minimal impact on residents since the residential units are located across an <br />arterial street and not immediately adjacent to the business. Policy 1.1 of the General <br />Plan Land Use Element encourages development that fosters compatibility between land <br />uses to enhance livability. An eating establishment at this location will be compatible with <br />the surrounding businesses as it supports the commercial environment along Edinger <br />Avenue. Therefore, the proposed project also supports Goal 1 and 2 of the Land Use <br />Element to provide a land use plan that improves quality of life, respects the existing <br />community, and provides a balance of land uses that meet Santa Ana’s diverse needs. <br />The proposed sale of alcoholic beverages for on-premise consumption will not be <br />detrimental to the health, safety, and welfare of the community. Policy 2.2 of the Land <br />Use Element encourages a range of commercial uses to capture a greater share of local <br />spending and offer a range of employment opportunities. The project offers an additional <br />service and amenity for Santa Ana residents and visitors, thereby positively contributing <br />to the economic viability of the area by promoting local spending and providing a safe <br />workplace. Policy 2.7 of the Land Use Element supports land use decisions that <br />encourage the creation, development, and retention of business in Santa Ana. Allowing <br />customers the ability to purchase a variety of alcoholic beverages with their meal will allow <br />The Lotus Restaurant to enhance their business offerings and compete with nearby full- <br />service restaurants that offer similar services. <br />6/13/2022 <br />Planning Commission 1 –3