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The lot for a proposed residential subdivision is located at 1205 Melrose Way in Vista. File photo
The lot for a proposed residential subdivision is located at 1205 Melrose Way in Vista. File photo
CitiesNewsPolitics & GovernmentRegionVista

Vista council overrides Planning Commission, OKs residential subdivision

VISTA — The Vista City Council reversed a Planning Commission decision and voted to move forward with a residential subdivision with 15 lots for single-family homes.

At its Aug. 23 meeting, the council voted 4-1 to approve the small-lot development, with Councilmember Katie Melendez casting the lone no vote.

The 2.55-acre lot at 1205 Melrose Way currently consists of former agricultural land and a 1,200-square-foot home.

The applicant, Zoran Djordjevich with Pacific International Investments, was initially denied by the Planning Commission on July 19.

The change in the city’s General Plan from a “low density” to “medium-low density” residential designation allows for a maximum of five units per acre. However, state density bonus rules will enable the applicant to 5.88 units per acre.

Of the 15 two-story homes (atop garages) proposed, one would be deed-restricted for very low-income earners. The anticipated price of the homes upon completion is $700,000 to $800,000.

While the council agreed that the project was a unique way to address housing shortages in Vista, Melendez said the one deed-restricted home is “not going to solve our housing instability issue that we have here.”

Melendez said she wants additional units to deed restricted or designated affordable housing.

On July 19, the Planning Commission denied the project — but with some recommendations on returning the project.

The planners found that the lot sizes and project design were incompatible with the neighborhood, saying that the proposed lot sizes were “significantly larger” than in surrounding neighborhoods. They also had concerns about whether the infrastructure for emergency services was adequate.

The issue came back before the council. Councilmember Corinna Contreras said she struggled with a yes vote due to the substandard status of McGavran Terrace, on the north side of the property, and its use as a secondary emergency route.

“I really do not believe density is an issue,” Contreras said. “I think the issue is the configuration of this lot with a proposed emergency access point that really isn’t suitable for an emergency.”

McGavran Terrace is a private road owned by the residents. Councilmember Joe Green said that the secondary fire access will benefit those homes.

Council members asked staff about addressing traffic and road safety concerns, which will require later action.