Yorba Linda, Calif., voters will decide Nov. 8 on Measure Z, which would rezone nearly 20 sites for housing and increase the maximum height on new developments.
Additionally, it would remove the requirement that all high-density developments receive voter approval in those areas. Developments in these sites would only require city council approval.
The measure comes as the city works to comply with a state housing mandate, requiring cities zone for more housing units, including affordable housing. Yorba Linda must make space for over 2,400 new housing units by 2029. The city does not need to construct the units, but only make space for them.
Some notable changes of zoning if the measure is approved include allowing apartments or duplexes in the city’s Savi Ranch area, which contains most of the its retail businesses and provides 60 percent of its sales tax. The measure would allow new housing developments at 35 units per acre.
It would also allow for an added 120 housing units in the city’s downtown and 228 units more—mostly high density—in the West Bastanchury area in northwest Yorba Linda.
Many of these sites will be allowed a maximum height of 40 feet or 3 stories—a change from the city’s current limit of 35 feet.
Proponents, including some residents, say since the state has already required the city to zone for more housing, the measure would allow for an easier and quicker route to meeting those requirements.
Additionally, if the city does not meet the housing quota, it may be fined. The state has also threatened to take over local housing control of cities not meeting the mandate and implement its own zoning plans.
Those opposed to the measure, which also includes some residents, say the city should hold off on these plans as their deadline for zoning to meet state requirements is still a couple of years away.
If Measure Z is approved, it would take effect 10 days after certification.
