SEAL BEACH : Conversion of Lodge Expected to Be OKd

Plans to convert a Masonic lodge into a shop and office complex is expected to win final approval from the Planning Commission tonight, despite objections from some residents who fear the move will worsen Main Street’s parking shortage.

But project opponents will probably appeal the decision to the City Council, so few expect the issue to be resolved soon.

The Planning Commission earlier this month gave tentative approval to a developer’s plans for the lodge at 212 Main St. It is being sold by the Masons because of declining membership in its Seal Beach chapter.

Planning Commissioner Mary Law expressed support for the plan, saying it allows the building to be developed without overwhelming the surrounding community.

Law acknowledged that the building does not provide much parking but noted that the City Council is now considering steps to make more parking spaces available to Main Street shoppers.

Some residents, however, said the plan for a yet-to-be determined number of shops and offices amounts to an “unacceptable intensification of use” for the neighborhood.

The lodge was used at “odd times and on weekends. It was not a very intense use,” said community activist Charles Antos. “All of a sudden, you will have this (building) used all day and into the evening, (further) impacting the street traffic.”

Both Antos and some city officials expect tonight’s commission decision to be appealed to the City Council, which will then make a final decision.

The council is doing a long-term study of the downtown parking crunch. Suggestions for easing the shortage range from opening new parking lots to starting a Main Street tram service.