New ordinance could allow motels to convert to small apartments
When is a motel room not a motel room?
A municipal government might answer, “when it is permanently occupied.”
An owner of an older motel that provides low-cost shelter to people who can’t afford homes or apartments would probably disagree.
A proposal by the Santa Maria Community Development Department that could create a new type residential housing that would allow smaller motels in commercial zones to become permanent homes might make them see more eye-to-eye.
On Wednesday, the Santa Maria Planning Commission will consider amending its Municipal Code to include Efficiency Dwelling Units — 150- to 449-square-foot living spaces that would be used for permanent housing.
It’s an idea that couldn’t come soon enough for Eric Dias, one of the owners of Laz-E-Daze Inn.
Back in the 1950s and 60s, the old motor lodge was a favorite stop for travelers on Highway 101, and its restaurant, the Los Flores Inn, was a fine-dining establishment with a loyal local following.