Ethics Issues Postpone Hotel Vote

DANA POINT, CA-A vote by the local Planning Commission to approve an unusual request from a swank hotel has been postponed until the state’s primary ethics panel can determine whether some commissioners and other city leaders violated California law by attending the resort’s posh grand-opening party.

Three planning commissioners and other Dana Point officials, including at least one councilman, went to the bash at the $240-million St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort & Spa. They were entertained by pop music sensation Chris Issak, mingled with TV and movie stars, drank fine wine and were served appetizers that included poached lobster and caviar.

Some of the city officials brought along guests of their own. The hotel spent about $500 for each attendee, but California law prohibits public officials from accepting more than $320 in “gifts” from any single source over the course of a calendar year.