Council approves tentative map and mitigated negative declaration for Via Verde Estates, a six‑lot subdivision

The City Council approved a tentative tract map, a variance request and a mitigated negative declaration for Via Verde Estates, a proposed subdivision that would convert a 4.1‑acre nursery site into six single‑family lots with lot sizes ranging roughly from 24,260 to 28,184 square feet.

Planning staff described the project and said it requires a zone change from light agriculture with a four‑acre minimum (A‑1‑4) to an A‑1 zone with a 20,000‑square‑foot minimum lot size; lots 1 and 2 would receive variances to allow reduced minimum widths of 85 feet instead of the standard 100 feet. Staff said the project is consistent with the city’s subdivision map act and includes mitigation measures captured in a mitigated negative declaration.

The staff presentation reviewed site features, proposed site and street improvements (including removal of two billboards along Van Buren Boulevard and 56th Street improvements with an equestrian route) and stated the project is subject to the city’s inclusionary housing ordinance with an in‑lieu fee range. City engineering staff reviewed drainage and access questions; staff emphasized the project must retain additional on‑site runoff so it will not add flows to neighboring properties.

An applicant representative spoke in favor and said market values will be decided as conditions evolve. The council adopted the mitigated negative declaration and the tentative map, and introduced an ordinance to implement the zone change and conditions of approval.

Council members asked detailed questions about sidewalks, undergrounding of power lines and construction materials; staff affirmed conditions will require certain undergrounding and that sidewalks and curbs will be reviewed in plan check.