2008-032 - Amending the General Plan of the City of Santa Ana to Modify the Land Use Element

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LAND USE ELEMENT Table A-4 indicates the development possible under the build-out of the Land Use Plan. The build-out for residential land uses considered two scenarios. Effective build-out for residential development is calculated by adding the 8,783 un~s possible in the areas designated as District Center to the existing 74,588 units presen~y found in the City. Theoretical build-out for residential development considered the development possible if all of the areas designated as residential were developed according to the permitted Land Use Plan intensities. Since the Land Use Element does not contemplate the elimination of existing housing in the City, the effective build-out figure represents a more realistic estimate of future residential development. As indicated in Table A-4, four of the non-residential iand use designations have a range in FAR intensities. For the non-residential land use designations, effective build-out considered the development possible under the lower range of FAR intensities while theoretical build-out considered the upper FAR range. Typically, parking and landscaping requirements will result in significantly less floor area for commercial and industrial developments than that which is permitted under the General Plan. As indicated in Table A-4, between 65,212 to 77,820 housing units are allowed by the Land Use Plan. The additional units which presenUy exist in the City beyond the maximum number permitted under the theoretical build- out scenario are a reflection of the higher density multiple-family developments constructed in the 1970's and 1980's. However, the purpose of the Land Use Plan as ~ applies to the residential areas is to preserve and maintain the stability of existing neighborhoods, regardless of the character of development. The intent of the Plan is not to create any displacement, nor decrease existing development dens~ies. Rather, ~ is to ensure a safe, healthy, and livable environment for City residents. Existing residential development entitlements are protected through this Land Use Element, applicable Zoning regulations, and sections of the City code pertaining to legal nonconforming uses. The Land Use Element's implementation may result in an increase in the amount of commercial, office, and Industrial development in the City. As indicated in Tabie A-4 up to 55,658,406 square feet of commercial and office development, and 44,891,128 square feet of industrial development are possible under the effective capacity parameters of Land Use Plan. Revised (May 5, 2008). Resolution No. 2008-032 Page 11 of12