For the last year, FCA has opposed a proposed development along Newport Blvd. across from the Rocking Horse Ridge development. We were opposed to the proposed higher density (10,000 sq. ft. per lot) than the surrounding North Tustin properties, the view from Newport Blvd., and potential fire issues. We filed a lawsuit in January to protect a statutory time limit. After several months of negotiation, we have reached an agreement with the developer. We could have continued the lawsuit with a very uncertain result and considerable expense to the community. The agreement is a reasonable compromise that improves the development. The OC Board of Supervisors approved the revised plan on February 6, 2018.
Key changes to the plan are:
Reduction in the number of homes from 22 to 16.
Screening of the view from Newport Blvd. with landscaping and trees. This preserves the scenic view of this part of the highway (Newport Blvd.). This was included in the Conditions of Approval (COA) which mandates the HOA maintain and preserve this landscaping and trees.
Replacement of hammerhead turnarounds for fire authority equipment with full cul-de-sacs at both ends of the internal street.
Three car garages which will reduce parking on the street which will enhance fire safety.
FCA is grateful to the Steering Committee, comprised of Cowan Heights’ residents, for helping to bring this opposition to a reasonable conclusion. We are particularly thankful for the leadership of Jane Rice, Chair of this FCA initiative.
This was not a perfect resolution. The Supervisors did approve a rezoning of the property in spite of obvious very large objection by residents of North Tustin. Fortunately the project, as finally approved, will be less dense and considerably improved. With the existence of other large parcels in North Tustin, requests by developers for high density projects will continue. For example, there is current interest in development of the Tustin Hills Racquet Club. We must be tenacious in protecting the zoning of our community. As we have seen, it is a simple matter for the OC Board of Supervisors to rezone and provide a developer a denser and more valuable development. This is one reason North Tustin might want to incorporate.
FCA is not opposed to development, but developments need to be consistent with the neighborhood.
Rick Nelson, FCA President
Candidates Forum
/in Meetings, News /by adminFCA organized a forum for candidates running in the March 2019 special election for Supervisor of District 3. The forum opened with a two minute statement by each candidate, followed by one hour of Q&A, followed by a closing one minute statement by each candidate. Over 300 people attended.
FCA Annual Meeting 2019
/in Meetings /by adminWhen: Monday, March 4, 6:30 PM
Where: Trinity Presbyterian Church
(Corner 17th and Prospect)
The Annual and Town Hall Meeting of the Foothill Communities Association is open to the public, and everyone is welcome. Note that we have a different venue – the Fellowship Hall at Trinity Presbyterian Church at the intersection of 17th St and Prospect Ave. All speakers and local agencies will participate in the Q&A. So have your questions ready.
Starting at 6:30 pm will allow a half hour for informal discussions with FCA committees and with OC agencies—many will have tables and handout materials. Presentations will begin at 7 pm.
For 55 years, FCA has strived to preserve our unique and highly valued living environment. Last year we continued our efforts to protect and enhance our community. We work very hard to resolve community issues for our members. Your membership demonstrates your commitment to these objectives. Member dues are due January 1 of each year. For continuing members, renewal is only $25 ($20 for seniors 65 and over). For new members, the first year is free, and Lifetime Membership is $300. An FCA membership is a low-cost investment in our community and helps to insure our quality of life. If you have not mailed your 2019 membership dues, please complete the membership form in this Bulletin and mail with your check today or fill out the form at www.FCAhome.org. Now is the time to join or renew! FCA memberships, except for Lifetime members, all expire on December 31 of every year
Attendees can join or renew membership and vote for FCA Directors at the Annual Meeting.
Tree Preservation & Fire Prevention Workshop
/in Uncategorized /by adminTree Health & Fire Prevention
/in Fire Safe Council /by adminBring your questions for answers by the experts
FCA Bulletin Winter 2018
/in Uncategorized /by rnelsonDownload [212.87 KB]
FCA Annual Meeting 2018
/0 Comments/in Meetings, News /by cusellerationDownload [379.28 KB]
Settlement Reached
/in News /by adminFor the last year, FCA has opposed a proposed development along Newport Blvd. across from the Rocking Horse Ridge development. We were opposed to the proposed higher density (10,000 sq. ft. per lot) than the surrounding North Tustin properties, the view from Newport Blvd., and potential fire issues. We filed a lawsuit in January to protect a statutory time limit. After several months of negotiation, we have reached an agreement with the developer. We could have continued the lawsuit with a very uncertain result and considerable expense to the community. The agreement is a reasonable compromise that improves the development. The OC Board of Supervisors approved the revised plan on February 6, 2018.
Key changes to the plan are:
Reduction in the number of homes from 22 to 16.
Screening of the view from Newport Blvd. with landscaping and trees. This preserves the scenic view of this part of the highway (Newport Blvd.). This was included in the Conditions of Approval (COA) which mandates the HOA maintain and preserve this landscaping and trees.
Replacement of hammerhead turnarounds for fire authority equipment with full cul-de-sacs at both ends of the internal street.
Three car garages which will reduce parking on the street which will enhance fire safety.
FCA is grateful to the Steering Committee, comprised of Cowan Heights’ residents, for helping to bring this opposition to a reasonable conclusion. We are particularly thankful for the leadership of Jane Rice, Chair of this FCA initiative.
This was not a perfect resolution. The Supervisors did approve a rezoning of the property in spite of obvious very large objection by residents of North Tustin. Fortunately the project, as finally approved, will be less dense and considerably improved. With the existence of other large parcels in North Tustin, requests by developers for high density projects will continue. For example, there is current interest in development of the Tustin Hills Racquet Club. We must be tenacious in protecting the zoning of our community. As we have seen, it is a simple matter for the OC Board of Supervisors to rezone and provide a developer a denser and more valuable development. This is one reason North Tustin might want to incorporate.
FCA is not opposed to development, but developments need to be consistent with the neighborhood.
Rick Nelson, FCA President
Board of Directors – 2016
/0 Comments/in News /by cusellerationFCA Past Presidents
/0 Comments/in News /by cusellerationLife Members
/0 Comments/in News /by cuselleration