Woodland Hills Residents Voice Concerns Over Country Club Housing Proposal
Residents of Woodland Hills are voicing strong objections to a proposed housing development at the Woodland Hills Country Club. The plan involves constructing nearly 400 homes on a 20-acre portion of the club’s 93-acre property. Concerned citizens gathered for a town hall meeting to express their worries about the project.
Community Concerns About Housing Proposal
Attendees raised significant issues regarding the impact of the high-density housing plan. A primary concern is the limited access points for evacuation during emergencies, particularly potential wildfires. Collin St. James, a resident, articulated this anxiety, noting that approximately 650 homes lie directly behind the country club, with only two routes in and out.
Additional worries include increased traffic congestion and the project’s effect on environmental conditions. These issues were highlighted during the recent community meeting, where residents discussed their fears about safety and quality of life.
Developer’s Perspective
Arrimus Capital, the owner of the country club, argues that the project is necessary to meet the area’s housing demands. Project spokesperson Aaron Green stated, “A country club isn’t the best use for what we can serve Woodland Hills.” They propose a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and rent-restricted units.
Supporters of the development, like Cecilia Linares, believe it could benefit the community by providing jobs and affordable housing. “If so many of us call Woodland Hills home, we love it here; why can’t we share that with other people?” she asked.
Legislative Alternatives and Community Response
The project aims to expedite the development process by bypassing standard public hearings and environmental reviews under the AB 2011 state law. This move has caused further unrest among residents, as they fear it limits their ability to voice concerns.
Los Angeles Councilman Bob Blumenfield, representing Woodland Hills, expressed his discontent with this approach. He explained, “All of that is taken away,” referring to the traditional vetting process that ensures community input. Blumenfield has proposed a review of the project by the city attorney and planning department.
Historical Context of the Country Club
The Woodland Hills Country Club has been in operation for 100 years. However, it has faced challenges in adapting to contemporary demands. The owners believe that transitioning the land for housing is the most effective solution. Conversely, many residents, including Peter Williams, argue that the development poses too many risks, including environmental degradation and reduced quality of life.
As residents rally against the proposal, Blumenfield anticipates that legal battles may arise as the community persists in opposing the development.
