Commission Eyes Ban on Three-Story Buildings

The San Clemente Planning Commission is set to discuss zoning plans that would, among other requirements, limit new buildings in the downtown area to two stories.

This third-story-ban was proposed by members of the to the . This group is helping to craft the latest iteration of the city's general plan, which will set policy for zoning, land use and the direction of development in the city for at least the next decade.

It's set to be approved by San Clemente City Council later this year.

The three-story ban has drawn outrage from some downtown property owners, notably Jim Eckel and the dozen property owners who joined him to form the in July.

touched off the furor when it submitted renderings for its three-story, retail-residential project just north of the historic City Hall. Olen has since amended its plans in response to historical society criticisms, but the group still takes issue with the building.

Proponents of the ban say taller buildings would ruin the city's historic, small-town character, while opponents say the rule would take away their property rights.

The General Plan Advisory Committee this spring voted in favor of the ban with 10 for, seven against, two abstentions and six members of the committee absent from the meeting.

Members of both groups are expected to show up wearing different colors in solidarity with their side; red in support of the ban and green against it.

The Planning Commission meets at 6 p.m. Wednesday in , 100 Ave. Presidio.