Sylmar : Residents Group, City in Accord on Zoning

Worried about the planned construction of an apartment complex in a community known more for large open spaces and equestrians, leaders of a new residents group last week reached a compromise with city planners.

“We view it as a victory,” said Cindy Hazard, one of the organizers Sylmar United for the Preservation of the Environmental and Rural Betterment/Beautification, or SUPERB.

The group galvanized this summer after learning of planned zoning changes in a field at the northwest corner of Glenoaks Boulevard and Roxford Street. The land, which Hazard estimates is about six acres, is currently zoned for agricultural and equestrian use.

But recently, a developer requested zoning changes to permit construction of multifamily residential units there, added Hazard, who lives down the street from the property in a house her father built 50 years ago. “It’s just too high-density for this area,” Hazard said.

At a city Planning Commission meeting on Thursday, about 10 Sylmar residents spoke in opposition to the proposed change. Ultimately, planners approved a zoning change permitting construction of single-family homes built on either half- or quarter-acre lots, Hazard said.

City Planning Commission officials could not be reached for comment Friday.