This past April, the zoning administrator who oversees eight public beach lots wanted to propose broad changes to parking services, including at the lot at Belmont Pier.

Home to 273 parking stalls, the site is where everyone from those wishing to visit Belmont Brewing Co. for a beer to those who wish to use the bike and pedestrian path would park. And for those who live in the area or stay for extended hours, meters were effectively turned off at 6 p.m. to allow users to use the stalls sans charge.

The zoning administrator sought to expand the hours of the meters to 8 p.m., much to the chagrin of local businesses, particularly the owner of Belmont Brewing Co., David Hansen.

His appeal was forthright: it would decrease public use of the lot, impact investment and employment in the area, impact neighboring businesses adversely, and lose the city revenue.

City staff will recommend to the Planning Commission to uphold his appeal this Thursday, when the commission meets at City Hall (333 W. Ocean Blvd.) at 5 p.m.