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Planning commission approves tentative tract map to allow five for‑sale condominium units despite applicant absence
Summary
The commission approved TTM 19436 (431 West Lambert Road) enabling five for‑sale condominium units by a 3–2 vote after debate about timing, occupancy and the applicant’s absence; staff said timing is not a valid finding to deny the subdivision and code enforcement would act only if property maintenance standards were not met.
The La Habra Planning Commission voted 3–2 to approve Resolution No. 26-11 adopting Tentative Tract Map No. 19436, which would create a one-lot subdivision enabling five for‑sale condominium airspace lots at 431 West Lambert Road. Jacob Wylinga, associate planner, told the commission the project was approved as a planned unit development in 2020 and construction began in 2025; staff recommended approval subject to conditions and the recording of CC&Rs prior to the final map.
The motion passed after debate about the applicant’s absence and the timing of final map recording. Chair Ramsland said he was concerned the project’s construction could finish before the final map is recorded and that the buildings could receive certificates of occupancy as apartments rather than condominiums: "I think construction is going to be finished prior to the map being finished," he said. Commissioner Mahecha criticized the applicant’s absence, saying, "I would vote against this person just for not showing up," but said she could not find a legal reason to block approval. Staff legal counsel advised the commission that the statutory findings for denying a project focus on general-plan consistency, physical suitability and similar criteria and do not include project timing. Counsel also explained that the city's public‑nuisance and vacant‑lot rules allow code enforcement to act if a property is not maintained after 60 days, but maintenance can permit the owner to keep a property vacant while processing maps.
Commissioner Manley moved to approve the resolution; Commissioner Mahecha seconded. The motion passed 3–2. The clerk and staff noted a discrepancy in the vote display and said the record and minutes will be corrected; the resolution will become final in 10 working days unless appealed to the city council.
