THOUSAND OAKS : Limits on Arts Plaza Businesses Studied
The Thousand Oaks Planning Commission is scheduled to consider an ordinance today that limits the type of businesses near the city’s proposed Civic Arts Plaza.
The plaza, part of a 23-acre redevelopment project near Thousand Oaks Boulevard and Conejo School Road, will include a city hall and performing arts auditorium.
The ordinance would prevent the opening of businesses such as gas stations, storage garages, print shops, car sales lots and medical laboratories.
If the ordinance is adopted, existing businesses that do not conform with it would be allowed to continue operation, but requests to change or expand the businesses would be denied.
City planners want to ensure business compatibility with the plaza.
The proposal and Planning Commission recommendation will go to the City Council for final approval.
Similar temporary ordinances were adopted by the council more than two years ago. Approval of the proposed ordinance would make the commercial restrictions permanent.
The proposed $63-million project would be built on the site where the Jungleland wild animal park once stood. For years, the development has generated controversy among some Thousand Oaks residents who protested the use of proceeds from the sale of city property to finance the arts center. Others have objected to the design of the center.
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