San Clemente · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Clemente public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Santiago Balcony Addition near Historic Resource
A 419-square-foot addition and new two-car garage are proposed at 215 Esplanade, directly beside a home on the City's designated historic structures list at 217 Esplanade. Design compatibility with the historic neighbor will be the key question.
Seacliff Hotel Expansion in Pier Bowl
A 1,661-square-foot addition and remodel of a triplex at 514 Avenida Victoria would add a third floor and roof deck and restyle the building in Spanish Colonial Revival architecture in the Pier Bowl.
Public Art Policy and Program Expansion
The committee is reviewing ongoing initiatives from various subcommittees, covering public art installations, cultural events, funding partnerships, centennial planning, and historical resource collaboration.
San Clemente Materials Guide Standardization
The city is rolling out a new standardized color and materials guide to help streamline architectural reviews for Spanish-style developments.
Tree Removal
San Clemente locals are fighting to save 70 trees at Lantern Bay Park before the City Council votes on November 17. If you love the shade and green space at the park, this is your chance to make some noise.
2026 Historic Property Preservation Agreements (Mills Act)
Property owners are seeking Mills Act contracts with the city, which provide property tax savings in exchange for agreeing to maintain and restore their historic homes and buildings. The subcommittee reviewed the proposed 10-year maintenance work lists and adjusted timelines with owners before sending the agreements to the City Council.
Digester No. 2 Rehabilitation Completion
The city is officially accepting completed structural and mechanical improvements for Digester No. 2.
Building Code Updates and Enforcement
The city is updating Chapter 15.04 of the municipal code to refine building regulations and construction enforcement standards.
Ballot Measure
San Clemente locals are rallying behind a new ballot measure designed to protect the coastline and tighten up local development rules. If you love hitting the beach, this is definitely one to keep an eye on.
Potential San Clemente Community Resilience Center
The committee was scheduled to discuss a state planning grant and a public workshop on a possible community resilience center — a facility that could help the community prepare for and recover from emergencies. No decision is on record.
Real Estate Asset Management Program (REAMP) Adoption
The council adopted a comprehensive program to manage city-owned real estate, update lease and sale policies, and establish a formal surplus property list.
Abbasi Residence Hillside Development
A new modern-style home is coming to El Levante, bringing construction activity and parking concerns to a narrow hillside neighborhood.
Integrated Pest Management and Pesticide Use
Residents raised alarms over pesticide spraying near trails, parks, and goats, prompting the council to tighten oversight and study HOA rules.
Community Amphitheater Development
The city is exploring turning an underused bowl at Forster Ranch Community Park into a community amphitheater for concerts and events.
CSERP Pension Plan Policy and Governance Review
Staff and the committee outlined steps to update governance and investment policy for the non-CalPERS pension program (CSERP), including coordinating with City Council and exploring third-party advisory services.
AT&T Rooftop Wireless Facility Upgrade
AT&T wants to upgrade its cell equipment on top of the Travelodge at 2441 South El Camino Real, expanding the equipment footprint and raising the height above the standard limit. The design review board agreed that a simple, unadorned screen box matching the building's stucco is best, steering clear of fake windows or decorative tile roofs.
Zebra House Cafe Expansion and Streetscape Enhancement
Zebra House Cafe requested a patio expansion and pergola on El Camino Real to improve pedestrian connection and customer experience. Commissioners supported the natural wood aesthetic and flexibility over strict conformity.
Urban Water Management and Conservation
San Clemente adopted updated water management and shortage plans, showing local residents are successfully reducing per capita water use.
Historic Story Map GIS Tool
A planning intern presented a new interactive map compiling 207 historically significant properties in San Clemente for public education, tourism, and economic development.
PoolRx Commercial Office and Rugby Training Academy Integration
PoolRx was approved to combine its commercial distribution warehouse with a youth rugby training facility and a takeout canteen at 1120 Via Callejon. The project utilizes an off-site parking agreement with a neighbor to satisfy strict code requirements.
Rasta Taco Restaurant Remodel
Zebra House Coffee wants to remove a front planter to build an outdoor patio with a pergola and roll-up doors. The design board reviewed the project to ensure it fits San Clemente's Spanish Colonial Revival design guidelines without putting undue street tree burdens on the city or business.
Special Needs Volunteer Programming
A local resident urged the park commission to help design volunteer opportunities specifically tailored for individuals with special needs. Commissioners responded positively and asked staff to bring back a presentation on existing programs.
Mary Erickson Community Housing Loan Repayment
Representatives from Mary Erickson Community Housing asked the city to forgive two legacy loans totaling $245,000 for affordable housing properties on West Kenyatta and West Markita streets so they can reinvest the funds into desperately needed building rehabilitations.