During a public hearing on a zone text amendment (ZTA24-0012) for electric vehicle (EV) charging sites and service stations, West Hollywood Planning Commissioners debated balancing EV infrastructure with housing goals, urban design, and future adaptability. The discussion highlighted concerns over housing displacement, incidental use limits, and zoning flexibility.
Commissioner Lynn M. Hoopingarner raised concerns about EV service stations displacing lots zoned for housing, using a vacant lot between Hildale and Hammond on Sunset Boulevard as an example. She noted conflicting state mandates, saying, “The state has given us mixed orders here,” and emphasized protecting Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) goals. Acting Director Jennifer Alkire clarified that EV service stations require conditional use permits (CUPs), allowing denial if they conflict with housing priorities. Hoopingarner also cautioned against an “Auto Alley” aesthetic on Sunset Boulevard, advocating for limiting service stations to one per intersection, though this lacked majority support.
Commissioners debated incidental use limits at EV service stations, initially proposing a 25% floor area cap for amenities like restaurants (e.g., a Tesla restaurant at 7001 W Santa Monica Blvd, LA, exceeding this at 35%), but reverted to square footage limits (3,500 sq ft for stores, 3,000 for restaurants) to avoid definitional conflicts. They clarified vending machine placement (within 36 inches of the main structure) and allowed flexibility for future uses via planning director approval. Discussions on grandfathered uses (e.g., car washes at converted gas stations) confirmed that alterations are permitted if they don’t expand nonconforming uses. Commissioner Erick J. Matos supported adding a finding that EV charging stations can be accessory uses citywide, ensuring clarity for property owners like the Pacific Design Center. The amendment passed unanimously, forwarding the recommendation to the City Council.
