EP Neighbors, through pre-hearing negotiations in Garcetti's office and onsite visits, could not hold the developers to a definite commitment to build fewer units. (Over a year of negotiations we heard "15" units but then would hear "18 units.") However, issues regarding safety, traffic, signage and the steep topography, were included in the discussions. Representatives from LADOT and the Bureau of Engineering gave their input and laid out what could be done and not be done. Street widening was on the table. If the final decision required widening of Vestal Ave., the developers would have to foot the bill.
Although many Echo Park Neighbors spoke out at the February 28th, 2013 hearing, unit reduction was off the table, in spite of 134 signatures of protest and letters sent to Garcetti. Unfortunately, because of current zoning regulations, the developers have the right to build 18 units. During the hearing, Georgic Avanesian, representing LA City's Dept. of Engineering, passionately argued for street widening to reduce water runoff.
The Department of City Planning's FINAL DECISION came May 22, 2013 in a 28 page pdf file: VTT-71901-SL Decision 5_22-13. It includes street widening, as well as many stipulations covering all phases of the development process. Worth a read to understand and monitor the processes.
Case No.: ZA 2012-1388(ZAA) the ZONING ADMINISTRATOR'S ADJUSTMENT is posted in a 7 page pdf. document. This approval is tied to VTT-71901-SL and ENV-2012-1389-MND, listing mandatory findings.
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