Commission approves outdoor bar terrace at former Wendy's site on East Oakland Park Boulevard

The City Commission voted unanimously to approve a conditional use application that permits a 1,247-square-foot outdoor bar terrace to operate as an accessory use to the existing 2,491-square-foot restaurant at 2031 E. Oakland Park Blvd.

Sierra Marrero, director of engineering and community development, told the commission the application (CD24-21CU) had been reviewed by the Development Review Committee and the Planning & Zoning Board, both of which recommended approval with two conditions: the removal of an existing nonconforming pole sign before issuance of a certificate of occupancy and the completion of unity of title before issuance of building permits.

Applicant representatives described the proposal as a conversion of the former Wendy's drive-through area into an outdoor beer garden and said they would implement noise and light mitigation measures and coordinate with adjacent property owners. "If you have not had a burger here yet, this is a replacement of the Wendy's on Oakland Park Boulevard," a representative said, describing the tenant'operator and menu.

The applicant confirmed acceptance of staff'recommended conditions. With no members of the public speaking on the item, Vice Mayor Arndt moved to approve the conditional use with the two recommended conditions and the commission approved the motion by roll call vote, with all five commissioners voting yes.

The commission noted that the property is within the Federal Highway Mixed Use Business and Entertainment overlay and that a companion major site plan amendment is contingent on the conditional use approval.