MWD Delays Plan to Build Garvey Facility

In response to threats of a lawsuit from the city of Monterey Park, the Metropolitan Water District has agreed to delay plans for building a maintenance and repair facility at the Garvey Reservoir.

As part of a compromise, water district officials have said they would give the city 60 days written notice of any demolition, grading, final design plans or construction planned at the site along Orange Avenue.

Neighbors of the reservoir have waged a growing campaign against the district’s plans for a 26,000-square-foot facility in the residential area. Residents say they are concerned about increased traffic and the potential storage of chemicals at the facility.

The City Council earlier this month voted to sue the district if it went ahead with the proposal. City officials said they were prepared to file the suit 10 days ago, but City Manager Mark Lewis met with district officials and reached a temporary compromise.

“We’re going to meet with city officials to see if we can resolve whatever the objections are,” said district spokesman Bob Gomperz. “If that is not possible, then we will reassess our plans.”

Lewis said: “The residents have strongly pointed out all of the problems this facility would create for them. I’m glad to see that MWD is willing to listen.” However, Lewis said the city would “remain diligent” and that, if negotiations fail, it is still prepared to sue.