Businesses, residences approved at Beach and Ellis

The Huntington Beach City Council voted Monday to approve a site plan review of the Beach and Ellis Mixed Use Project.

The project calls for 274 residential units, 8,500 square feet of retail space and parking on 2.74 acres at the southeast corner of Beach Boulevard and Ellis Avenue, according to a city staff report.

The project, which was approved by the Planning Commission in May, was appealed by Mayor Don Hansen.

Hansen said he didn’t appeal it because he disagreed with the Planning Commission’s approval of the project, but because he wanted the City Council to review it and voice any concerns early in the process.

Councilwoman Connie Boardman said she was concerned with contamination resulting from gas leakage into the ground, but staff said the contamination will be cleaned up before occupancy.

Boardman said the project isn’t consistent with city code, which prohibits loading and unloading for businesses from taking place in pedestrian areas.

City staff said loading and unloading for the project will take place in the pedestrian area because the property size is too small and will not allow for a separate area for the activity.

The council voted to approve the project in a 5-1-1 vote with Boardman opposing. Councilman Joe Shaw was absent.

mona.shadia@latimes.com

Twitter: @MonaShadia