Montebello council upholds planning commission denial of 15‑home Casa Bella del Sur proposal

The Montebello City Council on the evening of Oct. 27 voted 4‑0 to uphold the planning commission's denial of a land use proposal for 301 Jack Mart Drive, a project the applicant called Casa Bella del Sur that would have replaced an existing single‑family home with 15 two‑story detached homes.

Supporters of the project, which the applicant described as 15 market‑rate single‑family homes sold to individual buyers, said the development would provide moderate‑income ownership opportunities and improve a long‑vacant parcel. Victor Sanchez, the project representative, said the proposal included private streets, a pocket park, and design conditions proposed after community outreach. "This project represents a responsible community‑shaped solution that delivers moderate rate housing and aligns with Montebello's general plan," Sanchez told the council.

Opponents — including multiple nearby residents and speakers representing the neighborhood — said the parcel could not support the proposed density without harming parking, privacy and neighborhood character. Speakers raised concerns about lot sizes, driveway lengths, potential conversion of garages or creation of accessory units,…