Runkle Ranch Annexation OK'd

Los Angeles Daily News

Saturday, September 18, 2004 -

SIMI VALLEY -- The city's annexation of 1,500 acres for the Runkle Canyon housing development has been approved by Ventura County's Local Agency Formation Commission.

The city's sphere of influence also was expanded to include 1,192 acres extending into the canyon.

With the annexation, grading could begin by next summer on the project, south of Sequoia Avenue. The development encompasses 323-single family homes, and 138 homes for seniors -- including 62-below market units.

The development received unanimous approval by the City Council back in April.

On Wednesday, the county's Local Agency Formation Commission approved the annexation last week by a vote of 6-1. Commissioner and county Supervisor Linda Parks dissented.

"The development had a lot of good points," Parks said, "The problem I have is that it will grade 1.7 million cubic feet of dirt for a golf course."

Parks said she was concerned about any contaminants. like perchlorate, being churned up in the process.

The Runkle Ranch project has been in the works for about five years, in the hands of developer GreenPark. Amenities include a five-acre neighborhood park and an 18-hole public golf course.

More than 90 percent of the canyon's acreage will be preserved as permanent open space for hiking, bicycling and horse trails for the public.

Mayor Pro Tem Paul Miller called it a great project because of the senior housing element and preservation of open space.

"The GreenPark people listened to the residents," he said. "They took the time to talk to all the neighbors and learn what they wanted and what they didn't want. The project as it now sits, is beneficial for the city."

Angie Valencia
(805) 583-7604
angie.valencia@dailynews.com