CANOGA PARK : Approval Given for Restaurant, Garage

A developer’s proposal to divide a Canoga Park street-corner property and build a fast-food restaurant and automotive-repair shop has been approved despite one resident’s objection that it will hasten the deterioration of the neighborhood.

“This used to be a lovely little area,” said Elva Turner, who is trying to sell her condominium near the property. Now, she said, “We have the homeless, the graffiti, and closed businesses all through the area.”

Tri-Corner Partnership of San Diego has received preliminary approval for a zone change and subdivision of the property at 8230 Topanga Canyon Blvd., now the site of an Exxon gas station. The firm has proposed replacing the gas station with an automotive center and a Carl’s Jr. restaurant.

Gabriel Robles, associate city planner, said planning staff felt the proposal fit well with the commercial development that already flanks both sides of Topanga Canyon Boulevard.

The Deputy Advisory Agency, which reviews applications, is expected to issue a formal letter of approval in the next week. As a condition for approval, Tri-Corner has been asked to work with the state Department of Transportation on possible improvements to Topanga Canyon Boulevard. The proposal will be forwarded to the city Planning Commission in a few weeks.

Turner, who wrote to the city Deputy Advisory Agency opposing the subdivision, said she was disappointed by the decision. The addition of a fast-food restaurant and car-repair business within a block of two boarded-up restaurants peppered with spray paint will increase crime and lower property values, Turner said.

Tri-Corner also faces resistance from another quarter: William Hilo, owner of the Exxon station on the site, said he has yet to resolve the terms of his lease with Tri-Corner, and added that he may try to remain on the property.

A spokesman for Tri-Corner declined to comment.