(August 18) The city of Chino has effectuated zone changes mandated by city voters during the special election the city held on July 8.
That special election was instigated by Lennar Homes and Stratham Homes, which together defrayed the $197,000 cost of the special election.
The special election was requested by landowners on behalf of developmental interests.
Under Chino’s municipal code, any changes in the city code or zoning map must be approved by the city’s residents if that change entails a transition to residential use or an increase in residential density.
Lennar is seeking to construct 203 single family homes on 38.5 acres north of Eucalyptus Avenue between San Antonio and Euclid avenues on a site that was formerly zoned business park and low density residential with a maximum of two homes per acre.
Voters in July approved allowing the property to be developed to an intensity of up to 12 units per acre.
In January, the Chino Planning Commission voted 5-2 against allowing Lennar’s project to proceed. The majority of commissioners were opposed to the concept of altering the low density zoning on the property.
Voters, however, who were subjected to an energetic advertising campaign, which, according to some members of the city council, falsely asserted that the project had full council approval, second-guessed the planning commission with regard to the Lennar proposal.
Stratham Homes has two projects pending, one a 127-unit development off Euclid Avenue and another 94-unit development off Central Avenue.
The 127-unit project consists entirely of single family homes on 11.6 acres between Euclid and Fern avenues accessible by Schaefer Avenue. That property was previously slated for commercial development.
The 94-unit project will involve 92 condominiums and two single family dwelling units on 9.2 acres of previously commercial zoned property east of Central Avenue and north of Francis Street. The two single family homes will be constructed on the 1.5 acres at the eastern extreme of the property, abutting a low density residential neighborhood to the east. The new zoning designation of RD 12 will allow 12 units per acre on the remaining 7.7 acres, i.e., 92 condominiums.