Solvang’s Planning Commission denied the permit for a nightclub and live entertainment venue following pushback from residents regarding heavy drinking in the city.

Applicant Origarlo Alvarez sought a conditional-use permit with a Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control license for the venue at 448 Alisal Road, which was formerly Alisal Cellars.

The 4,500-square-foot basement would have operated from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m., have an occupancy limit of 246 people, and no food or beverage service besides alcohol.

“It’s live entertainment. We will have average light music, some DJs, and we think it’s a plus for Solvang,” Alvarez said.

He also said customers would come from surrounding areas, ensuring there would be a plentiful crowd enjoying the venue. 

Commissioners raised concerns regarding the proposed nightclub, citing issues of heavy drinking without food during the late night, and patrons having to commute to the area. 

“I’ve seen enough issues involving alcohol without food that I have grave concerns about it, and I have grave concerns about the number of hours we’re proposing to be open without food,” Commissioner Aaron Petersen said.

Additionally, a Solvang resident raised concerns regarding the nightclub’s fit in Solvang’s culture. 

During public comment, many residents cited Solvang’s noise ordinance, which prevents sound from exceeding 60 decibels late at night, including weekends.

“That’s not why people come to Solvang; they come here because we don’t have nightlife. This town shuts down at 9 o’clock, and as much as (residents) like to complain about it, they actually love it,” developer Ed St. George said. “That’s why they come here. It’s got a great small-town feel. This is not what we need.”

Planning Commission chair Jack Williams also raised concerns regarding the safety of a nightclub, as well as potential hazards for a large presence in the city during the nighttime.

“I am concerned about safety. I’m concerned about sanitation, trash, just the general things that go on with having potentially as many as 250 people coming out on the street at 2 a.m. in the morning,”  Williams said.

Nearby business owners said that when the basement was previously operated as a late-night venue, they routinely had issues with trash, broken windows, and public urination and vomiting on the surrounding streets.

Following the discussion, the commission unanimously voted to deny the permit because of the proposed use of constituting a hazard to public health, safety and welfare without prejudice.

However, the applicant can appeal the commission’s denial to the City Council. 

The commission emphasized interest in the applicant’s business if they approached with a revised model.