Despite stating its desire to see the hillsides at the eastern entrance to Simi Valley remain undeveloped, the City Council granted building approvals for the controversial Happy Face Hill project last week.

“There are personal property owner rights, we have to respect that, but we’re trying to make the best of it,” said Councilmember Steve Sojka, who cast one of the four votes in favor of the project.

Only Councilmember Barbra Williamson voted against it.

The 66-unit condominium project, visible from the 118 Freeway at Kuehner Drive, was originally approved five years ago. At that time, there was strong opposition from residents who wanted the grassy hillside next door to Simi’s signature smiley face left untouched.

Construction began, but after several months of grading, the builder, Larwin Co., decided in October 2007 to halt work until market conditions improved. But the project never started up again and when the Encinobased developer fell into bankruptcy, it was forced to turn the land over to the bank.

In August 2009, Palmdale 47th LLC purchased the idling 10.2-acre Happy Face Hill property, with plans to build the project as originally approved.

Though the tentative tract map and planned development permit are good until April 2013, the developer had to regain several expired permits before starting construction.

The application came before the City Council May 10 for final approval and was given the go-ahead. After its decision, the council explained why it needed to reissue the expired building permits.

Mayor Pro Tem Glen Becerra said the property is zoned for residential development and the council must uphold the law. The city had made several attempts to save the property from development, he said, but when those proved unsuccessful, the council’s goal was to get the best project possible. He cited the heavy landscape requirements placed on the project and the fact that the city will gain seven affordablehousing units.

Williamson, who also voted against the project in 2005, maintained her opposition.

“Anything that has to do with that project I’m not going to support,” she said. “I like the affordable aspect of it, but you know what? It’s in the wrong place.”

Jon Friedman, operating manager of Palmdale 47th, said he hopes to begin construction in about four months.

“We’re excited about the opportunity of trying to get this thing started again,” he said.

After hearing from a resident who was upset that public access to trails had been fenced off, the developer said he’d work to reopen the trails.