Slow-Growth Plan on Ballot in Monterey Park

In addition to filling three council seats, voters will decide in April whether they want to extend Proposition K, a slow-growth initiative approved in 1982.

The measure was placed on the ballot Monday night despite vehement objections from Councilman Chris Houseman, who characterized it as a “political sham.”

“You’d think there is a groundswell of support,” said Houseman, who questioned the procedures leading to the measure’s recommendation. “There’s no evidence of that at all.”

After questioning Irv Gilman, one of the measure’s authors, Houseman learned that a citizens’ request supporting the measure had been signed by 48 residents, far fewer than the 4,600 or 20% of registered voters needed to place an initiative on the ballot. An initiative can also be placed on the ballot by the City Council.

Proposition K limits the number of residential units that can be built in the city each year. If approved April 10, the measure, which expires in 1992, will be extended through 2000.

After Gilman and other residents presented their 48 signatures last month, City Atty. Stephanie Scher drafted an initiative to go before the council.

“What it’s really all about is politics,” said Houseman, who faces reelection in April. Then, pointing to Mayor Patricia Reichenberger and Councilwomen Judy Chu and Betty Couch, he added: “You’ve spent the city attorney’s time and taxpayers’ money for a political friend. Even the Declaration of Independence wasn’t done so secretively.”

Reichenberger, who is also up for reelection, remained calm through Houseman’s speech.

“I don’t think it’s a political thing,” she said. “We’re all trying to do our jobs. We’re known as a slow-growth council.”

Added Chu: “I don’t think how any of this would be considered political chicanery.”

The proposal passed on a 3-2 vote, with Councilman Barry Hatch joining Houseman.