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Citrus Heights News Briefs: home invasion, night club update, top 20 leaders

Planning commissioners approved a proposal on Thursday to allow Alley Katz in Citrus Heights to reformat its use into a Latin-themed night club. // CH Sentinel

Latest local news briefs include a proposal for a Latin-themed night club gaining unanimous approval following a public hearing, a home invasion robbery under investigation, and the latest “Top 20” list unveiled in celebration of Citrus Heights’ 20th birthday.

New Citrus Heights night club approved 6-0 by planning commission
The owner of Alley Katz bar on Arcadia Drive received a green light from planning commissioners on Wednesday, allowing him to proceed with plans to reformat his facility into a Latin-themed night club. The new “Plush Restaurant and Lounge” will seek to target the region’s Latin community with “salsa dance, bachata, and other Mexican regional music including regeaton and mariachi,” according to the proposal.

Although commissioners questioned owner Felipe Olvera about parking, trash, noise, security, and age restrictions, each member voted in favor of approving the proposal. Only one resident spoke during a public hearing held prior to the vote, expressing some concern about noise levels and parking if a proposed 261-unit housing development is approved across the street on Arcadia. Commissioners and city staff said they believe a list of about two-dozen conditions imposed on the club are sufficient to mitigate any concerns. (see prior story for more)

Citrus Heights announces ‘Top 20’ community leaders, plants 20 oaks
During an April 13 city council meeting, the latest “Top 20” list in celebration of 20 years of cityhood was unveiled. Stephanie Cotter, from the city manager’s office, told council members that due to receiving so many submissions for “top 20 community leaders,” staff had found “it was impossible” to narrow the list of names down to only 20 people, so a decision was made to broadly list 20 groups of people rather than individuals.

First on the list was “all Citrus Heights residents,” followed by former residents, appointed and elected officials, safe commuters who pass through the city each day, teachers, those who volunteer and maintain parks, and “anyone we have missed who has ever had a positive impact on Citrus Heights.” The city also announced on Twitter this week that 20 oak trees had been planted along Stock Ranch Road in commemoration of the 20th year since Citrus Heights became a city in 1997.

Learn more about cityhood: 2017 marks 20 years since Citrus Heights became a city

Police investigating attempted home invasion robbery
Citrus Heights police are still investigating a home invasion incident on the 7800 block of Auburn Woods Drive that occurred last Thursday, Sgt. Jason Baldwin told The Sentinel this week. He said police believe four suspects entered a residence shortly after 2 a.m. “on false pretense.” At least one of the suspects was armed with a handgun.

Once inside the location, suspects reportedly demanded the residents’ property. After residents said they “had no property to give,” Baldwin said the suspects fled the location in a vehicle. He said “it does not appear this was a randomly selected location and the suspects may know the victims.” He later confirmed drugs are believed to have been involved in the incident.

Also in the news last week:

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