LA HABRA : Panel Seeks Revision of Apartment Plan

The city Planning Commission on Monday postponed ruling on a proposed 18-unit apartment complex in west La Habra to allow the developer to come up with plans to lessen the impact of new construction on neighbors.

The property, on West Hillandale Avenue, previously held two single-family homes. Permission was granted last June for the construction of nine apartments on half the land, and the developer recently purchased the other half and has asked for approval to double the number of units.

Several homeowners whose property is next to the property complained to the commission.

Cheryl Wissler, who lives in the 1400 block of Lorella Avenue, expressed concerns about noise and increased traffic.

Noting that the Hillandale property is at a significantly higher elevation than other homes in the neighborhood, Karen Lang-McNabb of Lorella Avenue asked that the proposed two-story buildings be reduced in height or set farther away from the property line.

Units that have already been constructed “overhang (the property line) like a vulture,” Lang-McNabb said. “I would not like the idea of a higher fence; it would look like the Berlin Wall used to look.”

Commissioners Charles Taylor and Michael C. Collins expressed concern about traffic along Hillandale and requested additional study by the city Traffic Commission before ruling on the request.

Kathy K. Kim, director of city planning, indicated that the developer can be asked to provide specific plans to address the concerns of neighboring homeowners.

The commission voted to reconsider the request Feb. 2, pending a report by the Traffic Commission and further information from the developer.

“We’ll lower the profile and modify the landscaping,” said Pete Volbeda of Walnut, architect for the project. He indicated that the design of the building may be changed, including the possibility of removing or relocating windows facing neighboring property.