San Clemente Council Approves Boutique Hotel Plan Amid Resident Concerns

UPDATE: The San Clemente City Council has just approved plans for a new four-story boutique hotel featuring a rooftop deck, aiming for completion by the time the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics kick off. The approval comes despite rising tensions among local residents concerned about the project’s height and potential noise issues.

The hotel, named The Lodge at San Clemente, will be constructed on a vacant 2-acre parcel on Avenida Vista Hermosa, directly across from the Outlets at San Clemente. The hotel design, which has evolved since its initial approval in 2004, now includes a rooftop bar and lounge, enhancing its appeal to future visitors during peak tourism seasons, particularly during the surfing competition at nearby Lower Trestles.

Concerns emerged after the council voted to increase the building height from 45 feet to 62 feet to accommodate the rooftop deck, bypassing the Design Review Commission and foregoing a new environmental study. This decision has sparked backlash from residents, who argue that the taller structure will disrupt their quiet neighborhood.

“They approved this without one noise condition,” said resident Beverly Wiesen, leading local opposition. Wiesen has warned the city of potential legal action if noise and light mitigation measures are not enforced. Earlier this month, her community group shared a letter threatening to sue if the hotel does not adhere to pre-established guidelines.

City Manager Andy Hall expressed optimism about finding a compromise. He proposed potential acoustic solutions, including enclosing parts of the rooftop to contain noise. “If we can enclose three walls and have a disappearing wall, we can contain the sound, especially in the evening hours,” Hall stated during the council meeting.

Architect Tim Fleming outlined plans to consult with an acoustical engineer to explore sound-dampening methods. He assured residents that measures would be taken to minimize light pollution while maintaining the aesthetic of the coastal environment.

While the design is still in flux, Fleming emphasized the importance of community engagement. “This rooftop deck is a public space. If you live in San Clemente, you can come here,” he noted, seeking to highlight its benefits for local residents, as well as tourists.

The council’s decision has divided opinions, with some members advocating for a swift progression to meet the Olympic timeline. Councilmember Mark Enmeier stated, “Design Review might make a recommendation we don’t want to do and delay it more.” Meanwhile, Mayor Steve Knoblock expressed confidence in the development, envisioning it as a potential “Southern California icon.”

As discussions continue, Wiesen and her group plan to meet again on November 3, 2023, with the hotel’s architect to address ongoing concerns. The outcome of these conversations could significantly alter the project as it moves forward.

Residents are watching closely as the council prepares to revisit the project within a month, hoping to secure a design that respects both community integrity and the hotel’s ambitious vision.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the impacts of the council’s decision unfold.