Frog House to plead its case before Planning Commission

The Frog House surf shop will take another leap toward preservation Thursday when the Newport Beach Planning Commission reviews its application to remain a business.

Owner TK Brimer and representatives of other properties on West Coast Highway will present their case about why the city shouldn't require their land to be used for residential purposes.

A city law intended to displace some drug recovery homes from residential neighborhoods also affects the 50-year-old shop, an animal shelter and a party planning store.

City planning staff members recommended approving their application, but had some reservations.

The staff report reads: "Although the Frog House has a strong following that supports its continued economic success, aesthetically, the property detracts from the overall district."

Brimer said he was concerned that city officials may decide that his eclectic building doesn't fit in with their vision for Newport Beach.

"Not all of Newport needs to look like Newport Coast," he said. "Our store, it harkens back to an earlier beach scene."

While a Facebook page supporting the Frog House has more than 3,500 members, Brimer said he expects about 25 to show up for Thursday's meeting.

Later, the application will go to the City Council and then the California Coastal Commission for review.