Camilla neighborhood raises privacy, safety and traffic concerns over Chick‑fil‑A plan

Camilla neighborhood residents told the Placentia City Council that recently advanced plans for a Chick‑fil‑A could reduce privacy, create security risks and diminish quality of life for adjacent homeowners unless the project’s grading, wall heights and landscaping are revised.

David Tsai, who identified himself as a Camilla resident, said the sequence of development changed (residential completed before commercial), producing a 2.5‑foot elevation difference that leaves parts of a 7‑foot wall as low as 5 feet in places. He said neighbors measured the difference and that in places a person’s head would peak over the wall: "People in the Chick‑fil‑A parking lot, when it's completed, will be able to look directly into our backyards and our homes, stripping residents of privacy." Tsai proposed leveling the site grading so adjoining walls function as intended, and ensuring a minimum 7‑foot barrier.

Tsai also criticised the planned use of Chinese elm trees placed four feet from the wall. Citing University of California planting guidance, he said Chinese elms have shallow, aggressive roots and large spread and recommended planting 15–20 feet from walls to avoid property damage; he also warned that climbable branches could allow trespassing. Dean Salamoni, another Camilla resident, added that a larger national chain operating late hours and receiving nighttime deliveries would change neighborhood character and raise noise and delivery‑truck concerns.

Council members acknowledged the concerns, said staff had circulated an FAQ and that Councilmember Yamaguchi planned one‑on‑one follow up with staff. No formal vote or permit action occurred at the meeting; council asked staff to continue reviewing the project and to provide updates to affected residents.