LA HABRA : Review Sought for Homeless Shelter

The City Council this week decided to solicit bids for an environmental review of the proposed Mary’s Home for Transitional Families.

At a public hearing last month, council members advised supporters of the proposed facility for homeless families that an environmental impact report must be submitted before they can take a final vote. The controversial project has been before the council and the city’s Planning Commission six times since December.

Opponents of what could become the city’s first homeless facility have objected to its proposed location, a 1.55-acre lot behind Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and School. The property, at 950 Walker Ave., is owned by the Diocese of Orange, which has agreed to lease the lot to Mary’s Home for $1 a year for 50 years.

Many residents living in the neighborhood fear the project will increase crime and traffic and lower property values.

Mary’s Home organizers commissioned a study earlier this year which concluded that there would be no serious traffic congestion in the area, but the City Council this week insisted on an environmental review by an independent consulting firm selected by city officials. The cost of the review will be borne by Mary’s Home sponsors.