Boards and Commission: Planning Commission - August 26, 2026

The City of Manhattan Beach Planning Commission held a meeting on August 26, 2026, primarily addressing two key procurement-related topics. First, the commission considered a variance request to reduce the front yard setback for a new two-story single-family residence at 620 25th Street. After reviewing staff reports, public comments, and applicant presentations, the commission discussed the unique lot shape and neighborhood compatibility before moving toward approval of the variance. Second, the commission reviewed proposed code amendments related to portable signs and benches in the public right-of-way. Staff presented findings from a field survey assessing the feasibility of benches, noting significant constraints due to right-of-way width and slope, and recommended no changes to current bench permitting procedures. The commission discussed accessibility requirements, ADA compliance, and potential capital improvement projects for public benches. They expressed support for streamlined permitting for portable signs but recognized limited applicability for benches. No formal votes on code amendments were recorded, but the commission provided direction to staff to prepare draft language for streamlined sign permitting and to consider bench installation as part of future city capital projects. The meeting also included public comments and procedural matters such as agenda approval and meeting minutes.