Coastal commission allows Balboa Inn expansion

Jan. 9, 2002 12 AM PT

Paul Clinton

NEWPORT BEACH -- The California Coastal Commission approved the

renovation of the Balboa Inn on Tuesday, ignoring a staff recommendation

to reject the face lift and expansion.

The commission unanimously approved the plan at its daylong meeting in

Los Angeles.

Commissioners brushed aside concerns in a commission staff report that

the project would unduly obstruct scenic views of Newport Harbor.

Instead, they praised the long-awaited expansion as the jewel in

Balboa Village’s tarnished crown. Mayor Tod Ridgeway spoke at the

hearing, lauding the project as a leading factor in the village’s

comeback. Commissioners agreed.

“It was a way to help the city accomplish the revitalization of that

area,” Commissioner Shirley Dettloff said. “What we saw was a centerpiece

the city is using to make changes in that area.”

The $1.5-million expansion will go along with the city’s $8.8-million

revamp of the city’s streets and parking in the village and a $4-million

restoration of Balboa Theater.

Michel Pourmussa, the hotel’s owner, could not be reached for comment.

Pourmussa’s plan for the historic hotel, placed on the National

square feet of retail shops, a 24-car parking garage and 11 high-end

suites.

The hotel’s swimming pool would be relocated to the second deck of the

parking structure.

The hotel was built in 1929, served as a girls school during World War

II and was owned by a group of NBA players in the 1980s.

But it badly needs work, city and business leaders say.

“It deserves a face lift and expansion,” Newport Beach Chamber of

Commerce Executive Director Richard Luehrs has said.

Commission staff members objected to Pourmussa’s plan to significantly

enlarge the building. But Dettloff said the inn is a special case and

wouldn’t lead to other businesses following suit.

“It will not be a problem,” Dettloff said. “The height of the building

-- in a commercial area -- would not set a precedent for having other

buildings that height.”

* Paul Clinton covers the environment and John Wayne Airport. He may

be reached at (949) 764-4330 or by e-mail ato7