Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Zoning topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves zoning amendment lowering Parcel 9 minimum density to 15 units per acre after public debate
Summary
After testimony and a divided debate, Placentia’s council adopted an ordinance changing Specific Plan 5 to allow a minimum density of 15 dwelling units per acre on Parcel 9 (amending the previous 65–95 range); the motion passed 3–2 following public comments about parking and safety and staff counsel on CEQA.
The City Council voted 3–2 on March 18 to introduce and adopt an ordinance amending Specific Plan 5 to change the minimum residential density on Parcel 9 from 65 units per acre to 15 units per acre.
Planning staff described the text amendment as a code change that does not itself approve any new project and recommended a categorical CEQA exemption for the amendment because no development is authorized by the ordinance alone. Staff also noted the change would allow a density range of 15–95 units per acre where previously the minimum was 65.
Public commenters raised concerns about parking, traffic, and public-safety impacts if unit counts changed; at least one commenter said cutting units could ease parking and safety issues. The applicant said staff and the HCED committee supported providing flexibility and that any future project changes would return to the appropriate review bodies.
Councilmember votes recorded in the meeting: Hummer — No; Smith — No; Yamaguchi — Yes; Mayor Pro Tem — Yes; Mayor Kerwin — Yes. The motion to adopt the ordinance passed 3–2.
Speakers and positions quoted during the hearing included planning staff (Joe Lambert) outlining the ordinance mechanics and members of the public raising parking and circulation concerns. The applicant said the amendment would not change the currently approved entitlements unless the applicant sought a separate modification.
Provisions: The ordinance reduces the minimum residential density for Parcel 9 (SP-5) to 15 dwelling units per acre; staff recommended findings for a CEQA categorical exemption and listed alternatives that included no minimum density or a range between 15 and 65.
Actions: Ordinance introduced and adopted to amend municipal code for SP-5; vote tally 3 yes, 2 no.
Speakers: Joe Lambert (planning staff), applicant (identified in the record as the project representative), public commenters.
