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Old Town La Verne density minimum lowered to 20 du/acre to support near‑term development
Summary
Council amended the Old Town La Verne Specific Plan to lower the minimum density in the Mixed Use 1 district from 38 to 20 dwelling units per acre, citing market and financing constraints that have stalled higher‑density projects; the planning commission recommended approval and the council adopted the ordinance 5–0.
City planning staff explained that high‑density projects above 38 dwelling units per acre have struggled to obtain financing in the current market and that a reduction in the minimum density to 20 dwelling units per acre in the Old Town La Verne Mixed Use 1 district would broaden feasible project types and encourage development of key parcels (including a referenced 1941 White Avenue site). Staff noted the change is intended to protect the city’s housing element and the viability of the Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD), which depends on future development to generate tax increment over its lifetime.
The planning commission reviewed the proposal and recommended approval. Council members asked about Fairplex proposals, bridge and utility constraints (including Edison coordination), and school capacity impacts; staff explained developer outreach and that development impact fees and school district planning address projected student needs. Public commenters expressed both support for modest density and concerns about school crowding. Council introduced and adopted the ordinance by title, found the action exempt pursuant to CEQA “common sense” exemption, and approved the change by a 5–0 vote.
What happens next: staff will file the ordinance and continue coordination with property owners and the EIFD to encourage near‑term, financeable development.
