# Santa Maria Planning Commission Meeting, September 16, 2026

The City of Santa Maria Planning Commission held a meeting on September 16, 2026, addressing several key agenda items including a downtown permit for alcohol sales at the Regal Edwards Theater, and two major development projects: the Westgate Village mixed-use development and the Courtyard at Hidden Pines mixed-use residential and commercial project. The commission discussed the proposed Type 41 ABC license for on-site beer and wine sales at the theater, with conditions to limit sales hours and alcohol consumption areas. Public comments expressed concerns about underage drinking, DUI rates, and maintaining family-friendly environments. The commission ultimately passed a resolution denying the alcohol sales permit due to public safety and welfare concerns. The Westgate Village project involved a general plan amendment, rezoning, specific plan amendment, and conditional use permits for a mixed-use development with residential units, commercial spaces, and amenities. The commission reviewed parking, open space modifications, traffic impacts, and landscaping, with some opposition from residents citing concerns about density, parking, and neighborhood character. The Courtyard at Hidden Pines project included a general plan amendment, rezoning, specific plan amendment, tentative tract map, and plan development permit for a mixed-use development with residential units, commercial space including an urgent care, and recreational facilities such as pickleball courts. The commission discussed parking, setbacks, traffic, and community benefits. The commission recommended approval of the Westgate Village and Courtyard at Hidden Pines projects to the city council, with some dissenting votes. The meeting also included procedural discussions and public engagement on planning and development issues affecting the community.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure, Professional Services
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** September 16, 2026

### Sources
- [Santa Maria Planning Commission Meeting, September 16, 2026](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDEdzASFpiI) - City of Santa Maria, California