A ballot initiative, Measure K, is set for a November vote and proposes to eliminate voter approval for significant development projects. If passed, Measure K would remove resident input for specific areas of the city’s General Plan and zoning, granting this power solely to the city council.
Councilwoman Andrea Marr has publicly supported Measure K, as detailed in an OC Register article this week. Along with Councilmembers Arils Reynolds and John Stephens, Marr voted in favor of limiting voter input on community development. Marr stated her support, explaining it “allows us to start the planning process,” to consider incorporating housing into major corridors while ensuring revitalization and thoughtful development. She added that it would not automatically result in development, as developers would still undergo normal entitlement processes, subject to fees, height, and density restrictions.
The measure's language specifically addresses affordable, low-income, and senior housing. However, critics express concern that this change could extend beyond high-density housing and impact other city projects.
This proposal comes in contrast to Costa Mesa, a city of 110,000 residents, which enacted Measure Y in 2016. Measure Y established that residents retain approval power for any major changes to the city’s General Plan and existing zoning, and it requires developers to disclose complete project impacts to the community.
The process leading up to the council’s decision on Measure K has also drawn scrutiny. Council members were provided with “talking points” to help promote the decision prior to their vote. An email to the council directed them to “Prepare the council with talking points as they work with the community,” and included “techniques to blocking, bridging, and answering tough questions” to guide their communication.
Councilman Don Harper expressed that he found it “inappropriate” for all council members to receive talking points in favor of an item before public input and the council vote. He also noted that private communication among more than three council members could constitute a Brown Act violation. Harper’s further questioning revealed that the council had hired a consultant to create these talking points. Councilwoman Marr attempted to explain the situation to Harper, suggesting the points were intended as assistance since he had not been present at a study session. The talking points not only promoted positive views on Measure K but also offered guidance on how council members should address public concerns about the measure.
