Hearing Officer to Decide on Permits for New East Side Car Wash, and Vroman’s to Sell Alcohol Offsite

This week, the Pasadena Hearing Officer is conducting a special meeting on Wednesday, November 18, to discuss several cases up for decision, including a conditional permit request to allow Vroman’s Bookstore to sell alcohol off-site from its existing wine bar. 

Another case being evaluated is the proposal to allow the operation of a new car wash, Wild Wash Express, at 2030 E. Colorado Blvd. 

Vroman’s Bookstore is seeking a major modification to their conditional use permit, or CUP, as required in city regulations, so they can sell beer and wine off-site from their existing wine bar inside the bookstore. The beer and wine bar, The 1894, named after the year Vroman’s Bookstore opened, features literature-inspired cocktails, craft beer, wine flights, and small bites. 

At 2030 E. Colorado Blvd., the owner is seeking a CUP to be able to operate a carwash and detailing service to be called Wild Wash Express. The project will include the construction of a 3,490 square-foot car wash building, installation of 30 self-serve vacuum stations, two vacuum equipment structures, one payment kiosk, and the remodeling of an existing 2,580 square foot equipment and storage building. 

The site is located within the East Colorado Specific Plan, the Route 66 area, where vehicle services — washing and detailing — may be allowed with the approval of a CUP. 

The Department of Planning and Community Development is recommending the approval of both applications. 

Members of the public can access the public meeting Wednesday through https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89013835095 or by calling (669) 900-6833 and using the webinar ID: 890 1383 5095.

Public comments may be sent by email to  tmolinar@cityofpasadena.net before Wednesday. 

At the start of the meeting, you may also submit public comments of up to 200 words regarding items on the agenda through www.cityofpasadena.net/planning/public-comment.

The special meeting begins at 5:30 p.m.