The Ceres Planning Commission gave its approval on Monday evening to a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) so that Grapple HQ martial arts training facility may operate the within an existing 24,411-square-foot metal industrial building.
The 1.11-acre property at 1200 Montclaire Drive, was permitted in July 2024 to build the warehouse type building but before the commission on Monday was an application for a proposed use of a martial arts training facility within the previously approved industrial building.
Grapple HQ would occupy approximately 1,626 square feet for martial arts instruction for both children and adults through scheduled classes. Evening instructional classes generally would take place between approximately 4:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.
No exterior modifications, building expansion, or site work were proposed.
The Ceres Municipal Code allows industrial recreational facilities on conditions within the M-2 (General Industrial) zoning district subject to approval of a Conditional Use Permit.
Because the use is not expected to cause significant noise, odors, truck traffic, or other operational impacts that would conflict with surrounding industrial tenants, the city staff believes the proposed use is consistent with the intent of the PC-50 zoning district.
Grapple HQ owner Cameron Gilliam, who is a Jiu-Jitsu black belt and 16-year military veteran, is relocating the business from Patterson to Ceres because it’s a shorter commute from and to his Turlock home.
“When parents enroll their kids into Jiu-Jitsu, it becomes more than just keeping them busy,” said Gilliam. “Whether it’s something as simple as tying their belt properly, lining up with their toes on the line, or bowing on and off the mat, they’re building many lifelong traits such as discipline, confidence, responsibility, courage, accountability, respect, you name it.”
He said many parents want the training for their children because they are bullied at school or have a lack of self-confidence.
“Jujitsu changed my life for the better,” said Gilliam. “If I can help change lives for the better through jujitsu, something that I love, I will choose that over any career.”
He told the commission that he wants to open his business as soon as possible since he signed a lease in January and has been losing money on rents.
“I am full support of this,” said Planning Commission Chairman Gary M. Condit. “I think anything we can give our youth to do and also adults as well. Jiu-Jitsu is a great thing, gets kids out there, and I have full confidence that you will make this successful. And I’m very glad we stole you from Patterson. I think it’s going to be a great benefit to the city.”
The commission voted 4-0 to support the application. Commissioner R.J. Jammu was absent.
