Residents urge city to oppose sale of Bassett Unified parcel; developers propose 105 condos

Dozens of residents urged the Baldwin Park City Council during public comment to oppose a proposal for 105 condominium units on a school-district parcel near Florence and Planno and to preserve the land as a park.

Speakers from neighborhoods adjacent to the site said the project would worsen parking, increase traffic and safety risks on narrow streets, and eliminate a potential green space for seniors and families. "We don't need these condos," resident Juanita Whitley said. "If we could get a park over there, it'll be great for us." Monse Ojeda, who said she lives directly behind the proposed site, told the council a development would "destroy my privacy, my peace, and the calm neighborhood." Jorge Del Real Carlos urged the council to "keep this space a green open public space as it should be."

The council did not take formal action on the project during the meeting. Mayor Avila told speakers the city did not have full information and that the property is owned by Bassett Unified School District. "I just need you to understand that as well. No decisions have been made," the mayor said. Council members said they were listening to concerns and would consider the points raised as they follow the matter.

Why it matters: Residents described immediate livability impacts — parking, narrow-street access, noise during construction and privacy loss — and framed the parcel as a community asset that could be preserved as a park or community facility. Several speakers identified seniors as a particularly affected group.

What council said and next steps: Council members emphasized they have not approved any development and noted that Bassett Unified School District owns the land and would be the party advancing any sale or agreement. Council member Estrada urged ongoing, transparent communication with the school district and recommended community input earlier in any process. No timeline, application, or formal planning item was presented to the council at the meeting.

Community details and context: Speakers repeatedly referenced the proposed count of 105 units and asked the city to explore alternatives. Multiple residents alleged debris and dumping on the site and said they had concerns about emergency access and construction impacts during a multi-year build period. The council indicated it will review any formal applications or information brought forward but did not schedule follow-up action at this meeting.

Ending: The council closed public comment after hearing multiple speakers and said staff would continue to monitor the matter; because the land is Bassett Unified School District property, further updates will depend on actions or submissions from the district.