A BRIEF HISTORY
In recent history 600 Foothill Blvd has served as home to the Church of Christ Scientists of La Ca˜nada, however with declining membership the decision was made to sell the property.
The first buyer in 2018, Oakmont Senior Living, proposed a 77,000 square foot senior living facility, but due to overwhelming opposition based on size, lack of parking and design the Planning Commission deferred consideration until more information was provided. Oakmont, who had bought the property on an option decided not to proceed.
CURRENT PROPOSAL FOR DEVELOPMENT
In September of 2019 Councilman Jonathan Curtis and his investors purchased the property for 4.2 million and proceeded with plans similar to what was originally opposed in the Oakmont proposal:
- Over 77,000 square feet
- 3 stories (current zoning for 2 story buildings only)
- 47 senior housing units
- 12 unmanaged and non-serviced hotel units
- 7,600 square feet of office space (currently zoned institutional)
WHY WE ARE IN OPPOSITION
The project as currently proposed raises concerns about zoning and traffic, but could also establish a disturbing precedent which would undoubtedly over time alter a large portion of the Foothill corridor.
- The public has been denied the ability to see the size and mass of the project using story poles/mock-ups
- Story poles/mock-ups were finally approved by the Planning Commission on 10/14/21 but would be installed only AFTER the project is approved by the city council
- Unprecedented 3 story height with new MU-3 zone proposed by the developer
- No on-property loading/unloading area
- Insufficient parking, which will result in the overflow of cars parking in residential neighborhoods south of Foothill
- Added congestion on narrow Woodleigh Lane, which already has crowding issues as multiple cars enter/exit the ARCO gas station
- Pedestrian safety concerns for a congested area
- Spot zoning
- Preferential treatment given to the developer, who is a member of the La Ca˜nada City Council
Together La Canada 