Planning commission gives thumbs up to L.A.-Madera Village
Date with City Council awaits
By Darleen Principe darleen@theacorn.com

The Simi Valley Planning Commission voted unanimously this week to recommend approval of a project that may be the last new major residential development in the city as Simi nears complete buildout in accordance with the General Plan.

In January, Beverly Hills-based developer Casden Properties LLC, will appear before the City Council in a public hearing for final approval of their proposal- which calls for the construction of 266 forsale residential units on the 16.8acre site east of Madera Road between Los Angeles Avenue and Simi Village Drive.

After more than 25 Simi residents expressed solid support for the development during the public hearing, members of the planning commission commended Casden representatives for their continued work and compromise with the city.

"The outreach here is truly remarkable," said Planning Commissioner Jim Dantona Jr. "You've listened to the constituents clearly. I want to compliment you on the design and the thought that goes into this project."

The Simi Valley City Council gave preliminary approval to Casden's plan in November 2004 after two earlier requests by the developer had been rejected primarily due to opposition from neighbors. Preliminary approval was granted when the developer agreed to set aside 67 of the units as affordable housing and keep the maximum height of the buildings at 35 feet.

Casden's outreach efforts ultimately proved successful when some of those same residents, originally in opposition, spoke out in support of the project at the public hearing on Wednesday.

"I was one of the largest opposers- so much so that I even started a petition," said Simi resident Susan Heck. "But they've taken what we've said and answered all of our questions concerning schools, parking and traffic. Now I hope you will approve this project."

Another resident, Marshall Whitworth, originally opposed the project but said it was "refreshing" to see that the developer and city officials listened to their concerns. Whitworth suggested the planning commission add a condition to their approval regarding rodent control during construction.

The planning commissioners agreed. They also requested that Casden replace a 16-inch water main located off Los Angeles Avenue, in addition to $7 million worth of other public improvements that the developer already agreed to. Those improvements include the widening and restriping of part of Madera Road.

Throughout public comments, very few residents were still unsure about or against the project.

"I'm going to sound like the gadfly in all of this," said Simi resident Steve Koep. "I commend Casden, but it doesn't solve some of the major impacts. The density is too much, and the height of those buildings at that location is too high. It creates nothing more than a high block development on that site."

Still, the commissioners said they would trust city staff and the developer to make a successful project, and they decided to go with the majority.

If the City Council grants final approval to Casden next month, the developer plans to first begin construction on a 66inch public storm drain running beneath Madera Road and Los Angeles Avenue, which is expected to resolve flooding and the high water table characteristic of the surrounding area.