Encinitas City Council considers rezoning affordable housing site L7 for new park use

The City of Encinitas City Council convened on February 26, 2025, to discuss the future of the city-owned site at 634 Quail Gardens Drive, known as L7. The primary focus of the meeting was to consider repealing and replacing a previous resolution that declared the site as surplus land, with the aim of potentially developing affordable housing or establishing a park.

Housing Services Manager Melinda Dacey presented the history of the L7 site, detailing previous council directions to explore options for a 100% affordable housing project. The council had previously considered two scenarios: a development of 30 to 45 units or an upzoning for 60 units designated for senior housing. Following a lack of responses to a notice of availability for the site, the council directed staff to proceed with plans for affordable housing, alongside community outreach and financial feasibility studies.

During the meeting, Dacey outlined two options for the council's consideration. The first option involves utilizing existing zoning regulations to establish a park on the L7 site, which would require the council to issue a request for proposals for park design services and secure funding. This option also includes recording deed restrictions and deferring naming rights until entitlements are complete.

The second option proposes rezoning the L7 site from residential to public or open space use. This process would necessitate a public vote under Proposition A, which mandates voter approval for any rezoning from residential to non-residential use. The council would need to update the general plan and submit amendments to the California Coastal Commission.

Dacey emphasized that any rezoning efforts must comply with state housing laws, which require the city to replace any lost residential capacity. This means that if the L7 site is rezoned, the city must identify other parcels to accommodate the necessary housing units.

The council is now tasked with deciding whether to pursue option one or two, which will shape the future of the L7 site and its role in addressing the city's housing and recreational needs. The outcome of this decision will have significant implications for the community, particularly in terms of affordable housing availability and public space development.