COSTA MESA : Contested Senior Housing Plan Upheld

Despite vocal protests from dozens of neighbors, the City Council this week upheld a Planning Commission decision to allow a senior-care facility to open on the north side of Costa Mesa.

Residents said they opposed the plan to convert a house to a residence for 14 senior citizens because they feared that the facility, which will employ three people, would bring noise and congestion.

“It will clearly have a negative impact on the neighborhood,” resident Jimmy Kawato said. “Excessive garbage will be generated, for one thing.”

After more than two hours of public debate Monday, the council was split on the issue, with Councilwoman Sandra L. Genis abstaining. The tie vote meant the decision of the Planning Commission to approve the project was upheld.

“In my opinion, a small house is not a suitable place for 14 people to live,” said Mayor Joe Erickson, who with Peter F. Buffa voted against approval. “The plan did not give them enough space for living or recreation.”