Whittier Council Rejects Residents’ Appeal, Approves 146 Townhomes
Residents didn’t ask Whittier to stop development. They asked for three changes, and the council approved the project without them as city officials warned about state housing law.
After a nearly four-hour public hearing on Nov. 10, the Whittier City Council approved plans for 146 for-sale three-story townhomes near The Quad, despite objections from neighbors who questioned whether the development followed the city’s own rules.
The neighbors weren't trying to stop the project or reduce the number of homes. They wanted changes to protect their privacy and keep the development from extending into their neighborhood. The developer argued those changes would reduce the number of homes and put the project out of compliance with state housing requirements.
Councilmembers faced a difficult decision. California housing laws limit when cities can reject developments, and the city's attorney warned that an unlawful denial could lead to costly litigation and potentially millions of dollars in penalties.
Four councilmembers voted to approve the project. Councilmember Cathy Warner abstained, saying she didn't have enough clarity on the issues.
