Plan for new townhomes in Signal Hill is tabled after concern over views

Ten new townhome-style condominiums appear to be on their way to Signal Hill, but it may take a while for residents to tu the key on their new homes.

With neighbor conces over the loss of views, and property values, the City Council on June 28 voted to table until September a possible vote on approving zoning changes that will allow for the condos at a .6-acre site on Temple Avenue between 19th and 20th streets, which is currently an infill parcel surrounded by condominium complexes on three sides.

“We have to balance the rights and conces of our existing residents with what will be our new residents,” Councilman Edward H.J. Wilson said.

High Rhodes Property Group, the applicant, requested the zoning change for property owner United Anglers of Southe Califoia.

“We’re looking forward to, hopefully, delivering completed projects, and selling out before the end of next year as our goal,” said Bradley R. Hillgren, founder of High Rhodes Property Group.

City officials said Signal Hill will receive an estimated $247,000 in impact fees, and the city’s share of property taxes collected from the development will range from $1,330 to $2,052 aually, depending on the final sale price of the homes.

Officials said until recently, the site contained five industrial buildings and a small shed. The State Division of Oil Gas and Geothermal Resources said two abandoned oil wells were near the project site.

Last July, the two wells were located, tested, and found not to be leaking, officials said.

Hillgren said on three different occasions, holes were dug 40-feet deep to find the well heads.

“We’re pleased to note that we were able to find them,” he said. “They have been appropriately capped and closed.”

Hillgren said the design calls for the project to be around, not over the well heads.

The Community Development Department completed an initial study under the Califoia Environmental Quality Act, and the city found the project would not have a significant adverse effect on the environment, and does not require the preparation of an environmental impact report.

The City Council will take up the matter again during its first meeting in September.

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