The Ventura County Resource Management Agency Planning Commission Hearing on July 31, 2025, focused on concerns regarding proposed high-density residential development in the Santa Susana area. Local resident concerns were prominently voiced, highlighting issues related to traffic safety, fire risk, and community notification.
A resident expressed significant worries about the two lots under consideration, citing the area's congested two-lane roads and a dangerous blind spot that has led to accidents. The resident emphasized that the region has recently been classified as a high fire risk area, raising alarms about the potential for increased density in a location already facing challenges such as regular power shutoffs and a lack of public transportation options.
The resident also questioned the notification process for community members regarding the proposed developments, noting that many locals were unaware of the meeting and the plans being discussed. This lack of awareness was echoed by the resident's communication with their supervisor's office, which had not received any notification about the project.
In response, officials clarified that the current proposal does not seek to increase the project's density and that environmental factors were previously considered during the initial rezoning in 2011. They assured that any future development would still need to address traffic safety and other concerns through a thorough review process.
The discussion underscored the complexities of balancing housing development with community safety and environmental considerations. The commission acknowledged the need for ongoing evaluation of the site and its implications for local residents, emphasizing that life safety and traffic issues would remain a priority in any future planning decisions.