Agora Hills residents voice concerns over traffic safety and fire hazards

Residents of Agoura Hills voiced urgent concerns about traffic, fire safety, and infrastructure during the City Council meeting on May 28, 2025. The discussions highlighted the community's growing anxiety over the implications of proposed housing developments and their potential impact on local safety and quality of life.

Yvonne Havril, a local resident, emphasized the overwhelming traffic on Canaan Road, describing it as a major thoroughfare with constant congestion. She expressed frustration over traffic studies that do not align with residents' experiences, noting that exiting onto Canaan often requires long waits. Havril also raised alarms about the electrical grid's capacity, citing frequent outages and questioning how it could support an influx of new residents without significant upgrades.

The issue of fire safety was a recurring theme, with Havril recounting her family's harrowing experience during the Woolsey Fire evacuation. She warned that inadequate emergency access could lead to dire consequences in the event of future fires. Other residents echoed her sentiments, expressing fears about the potential for increased fire hazards and the challenges of evacuating during emergencies.

John Williams, another long-time resident, shared his perspective on the community's evolution and voiced opposition to new housing developments, particularly those that may introduce lower-income housing. He reminisced about the town's past and expressed concern that new developments could compromise the area's character and safety.

The meeting underscored a palpable sense of unease among residents regarding the balance between development and maintaining the safety and integrity of their community. As discussions continue, the City Council faces the challenge of addressing these concerns while planning for Agoura Hills' future growth. The implications of their decisions will be closely watched by residents who are deeply invested in the well-being of their neighborhood.