Chapel relocation takes step forward

Calvary Chapel of the Harbour, Sunset Beach’s only church, has received state approval to move to a new home in Huntington Beach, although it may need one additional permit before it can officially make the move.

The California Coastal Commission ruled at its Aug. 11 to 13 meeting in favor of allowing religious assemblies in the district around Peter’s Landing Marina. The city has already approved the church’s conditional-use permit for the new location, but Planning and Building Director Scott Hess said the commission may also have to approve a coastal development permit, which is similar to a conditional-use permit but applies to developments by the shore.

“We are hoping to have an answer by the end of this week,” Hess said.

Still, Pastor Joe Pedick said he was optimistic that the church could start services in its new home soon.

“It’s a sigh of relief that we can go forward,” he said. “We can go ahead and worship the Lord without that restriction.”

— Michael Miller