In a heated Planning Commission meeting on July 3, 2025, community members voiced strong opposition to recent decisions that they believe threaten local businesses. The discussions centered around the denial of a permit for Hypnotic Wellness, a business that some claim has been unfairly targeted due to misinformation and bias.

One speaker passionately argued that the commission's actions could have devastating effects on the business owners, stating that the denial would not only close down a valuable establishment but also burden the owners with debts and a long-term lease liability. The speaker accused the commission of abusing their authority and misrepresenting facts, claiming that the reasoning behind the denial was unfounded and damaging to the reputation of Hypnotic Wellness.

Concerns were raised about the commission's claims regarding health and safety, with the speaker challenging the assertion that the business posed a threat to the general welfare of the community. They highlighted that the distance to a nearby store, which had been cited in the discussions, was misrepresented, further questioning the integrity of the commission's decision-making process.

Despite the pushback, two commissioners voted against even a modified permit, prolonging the uncertainty for the business and its owners. The speaker emphasized the importance of personal service businesses in the community, especially in the wake of challenges posed by the Internet and the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a hopeful turn, the speaker mentioned ongoing collaboration with the city council to enforce ordinances against illicit businesses, urging the commission to reconsider their stance and not jeopardize the livelihoods of local entrepreneurs. The meeting underscored the tension between regulatory authority and community support for small businesses, leaving many in Lake Forest eager for a resolution that balances both interests.