First published in the Sept. 8 print issue of the Outlook Valley Sun.
I have lived in La Cañada for almost 20 years, happily raising my family in our wonderful community. I have very fond memories of my child attending preschool at St. George’s Episcopal Church, which may be in danger of closing.
My wife and I were disappointed to discover that St. George’s has been working quietly behind the scenes to lobby the city to radically alter the zoning laws. The purpose is to develop a high-density, large-scale apartment building near the busy intersection of Commonwealth and Foothill.
If the City Council approves the Housing Element recommended by the City and Planning Commission, up to 50 units per acre could be built on St. George’s property, almost certainly displacing a single-family home and multiple small businesses. On their two-plus acre lot, that could be more than 100 apartments. Public records indicate that St. George’s is already in discussions with potential real estate developers. Like the 600 Foothill (ARCO) project, the new complex would undoubtedly be three stories, towering over nearby homes on Commonwealth and Beulah.
Unfortunately, St. George’s has kept its neighbors completely in the dark about its intentions. The city, while informing local businesses of the new Housing Element, has not directly notified homeowners of the possible impact. We keep hearing that “nothing has been actually presented to the city” or “we are just discussing some alternatives,” but if the zoning changes, certainly development to those high numbers will follow.
The corner of Commonwealth and Foothill as well as all intersections near the Town Center are already heavily trafficked. This new development would worsen the situation immensely, create additional gridlock on our busy roads and destroy the character of our city.
Please join me in imploring the City Council to look out for the best interest of La Cañada and reject the proposed rezoning plan. Encourage our city leaders to reduce the high-density numbers while still meeting state requirements. All concerned citizens should attend the Sept 12 City Council meeting at 6 p.m. and share their views on this critically important issue.
John Powers
La Cañada Flintridge
