Bed-and-Breakfast Plan Criticized

The concept seems simple enough: a plan to preserve historic homes in Seal Beach’s Old Town area, something seemingly everyone wants. However, a proposed city zoning ordinance that would allow homes 75 years old and older to be converted into bed and breakfasts has some residents upset.

The City Council asked residents Tuesday to comment on the proposed zoning ordinance as well as a contractor’s plan to relocate two homes to adjacent lots for conversion to bed and breakfasts.

Although some residents praised the restoration concept, others questioned the city’s motives.

“I love history, but this is a scam,” said 20-year resident James Caviola.

Contractor Chris Verhulst, who is proposing the renovation and relocation of the two homes known as the Krenwinkel House and the Proctor House, views his plan as a way of preservation. Others, however, view it as unwanted development. They are worried that the approval of one project would lead to other higher density developments, Caviola said.

The proposed ordinance, named the Residential Conservation Overlay Zone, would permit bed and breakfasts only under specific guidelines, including one that requires homes to be at least 75 years old and provide no more than six guest rooms in each building.

City Manager Keith Till, who mediated Tuesday’s community meeting, wanted residents to discuss the concept of bed and breakfasts in Seal Beach. But the residents focused most of their attention on Verhulst’s project.

Thirty-three-year resident Ron Bennett said he is concerned about the loss of the two homes’ character.

For those who are worried about widespread bed and breakfast developments in the city, Till said the zoning could be specific to the 7th Street location where Verhulst proposes to relocate the homes.

Verhulst’s plan calls for eight rooms between the two bed and breakfasts.

Another town hall meeting is being planned, but a date has not been set. The Planning Commission is scheduled to look at the issue again Feb. 23.

Alex Murashko can be reached at (714) 966-5974.