Ventura Planners to Discuss Proposal for Senior Housing

Ventura’s Planning Commission will consider a proposal tonight to build three office buildings and a 104-unit apartment building for seniors at the northwest corner of Ralston Street and Cypress Point Lane.

The entire apartment building would be affordable housing for seniors whose income would qualify for renting units, a staff report said. Seniors who would be eligible must have incomes equal to 30% to 80% of the county’s median income.

Three free-standing office buildings--one-, two- and three-stories tall--are proposed for a 3.5-acre parcel near the apartment complex.

The developer, Michael Towbes, will ask permission to reduce the amount of parking spaces required, among other mitigation measures. According to the zoning ordinance, 162 parking spaces are required, and Towbes is proposing 115 spaces.

An environmental impact report has already been prepared and reviewed by the city’s planning staff.

The City Council will have the final say on the project after the planning commission makes a recommendation.