NEWPORT BEACH PLANNING COMMISSION WRAP-UP

WHAT HAPPENED: The Newport Beach Planning Commission unanimously

voted to deny the Balboa Inn proposal without prejudice.

The inn’s management proposed building a two- and three-story addition

for 11 new guest rooms and a partially open parking garage.

Some nearby residents complained that the building would block ocean

views.

WHAT IT MEANS: Denying the proposal without prejudice means that

commissioners have returned the project for more work. Balboa Inn

managers can iron out any problems and submit the proposal again.

Commissioner Mike Kranzley said the main problem is getting permits up

to current standards.

VOTE: 6 IN FAVOR / 0 AGAINST

WHAT HAPPENED: Officials from Conexant Systems Inc. asked for their

expansion proposal to be postponed so they could have more time to work

on the plans.

The company has proposed to build a 556,000-square-foot addition to

its headquarters on Jamboree Road near John Wayne Airport.

The manufacturer of high-speed communications chips wants to create a

campus-like atmosphere for employees with a cafeteria, gym, park and

offices. The project would bring the total allowable building area on the

site to more than 1 million square feet.

In part, because of its location near the airport and the nature of

the development, the proposal has not sparked much, if any, controversy

with local residents.

WHAT IT MEANS: Conexant wants more time to go through their

project. However, City Councilman Tod Ridgeway’s recent announcement that

he will request the council postpone final votes on major developments

until after the Greenlight initiative is voted on in November could have

an effect on Conexant’s next move.

NO VOTE

NEXT MEETING:

7 p.m. Aug. 3 at City Hall, 3300 Newport Blvd.