Whittier Presses Annexation Plan

Only one big question remains as Whittier prepares to extend its meandering borders over 40 acres of unincorporated Los Angeles County: Do its neighbors really want to become Whittier residents?

It’s only a technicality, but city officials are inviting the nearly 500 residents whose homes would be included in the annexation to express their opinions at a special City Council “protest hearing” April 22.

If more than 50% of the area’s registered voters file complaints against the move, the deal is off and the land between Lockheed Avenue and the San Gabriel River (605) Freeway north of Whittier Boulevard would remain unincorporated county territory. If 25% to 50% protest, an election is required to decide the issue. Otherwise, the decision is left to city and county negotiators.

Last year, the council voted 5-0 to begin the annexation process after some members suggested that it would end the confusion caused by Whittier’s jagged northwestern border.

No official surveys have been conducted of residents who would be affected, but only two people in a crowd of 30 opposed the proposal at an informational meeting last month, Whittier planning director Michael Burnham said.

“We feel that this is a good move. Basically that’s it,” Burnham said.