HUNTINGTON BEACH : Approval of Condos Delayed by Panel

The California Coastal Commission has delayed approval of plans to build 80 condominiums along Pacific Coast Highway in the downtown redevelopment area pending further study.

Former Planning Commissioner Roy H. Richardson, who appealed the City Council’s 1993 approval of the development, testified before the commission Wednesday in San Rafael.

Calling the proposal “the worst project I’ve ever seen,” Richardson said it does not comply with the city’s plan for downtown development and that there would be inadequate parking and open space.

“I don’t really believe the condos should be put in the downtown core area,” he said. “I think that block should be devoted to visitor-serving commercial.”

The project, proposed by Coultrup Cos., would include offices, retail stores and a restaurant. The condominium building would be three stories high and would have a two-level underground parking structure.

The project would include portions of two blocks bounded by Main Street, Pacific Coast Highway, 6th Street and Walnut Avenue.

Jon Coultrup, president of the development company, said that despite the Coastal Commission’s continuance, he is confident the project will win approval.

“It’s an absolutely standout, marvelous project that’s taken years to achieve,” Coultrup said. The proposal has been in the works for about five years.

Mayor Victor Leipzig said he supports the project. “The council wants to maintain the momentum downtown,” he said. “We have a successful revitalization going, and we want to continue that process.”

But Councilman David Sullivan, who opposes the development, said that residential units are not appropriate for the area. “I’d like to see the right project,” he said, “and I’m willing to wait until that comes along.”