Item 18 - Appeal Application of Conditional Use Permit to Allow the Expansion of a Private School

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Appeal Application No. 2025-02 – Forty Martyrs Armenian Church Middle School (5311 W. McFadden Avenue) Exhibit 6 – Response to Appeal Comments Page 10 of 19 seven of the Planning Commission staff report (Exhibit 3 to the February 3, 2026 City Council staff report), the new proposed school expansion will not adversely affect the General Plan, as the granting of the CUP would be consistent with various goals and policies of the General Plan. The approval of the proposed project will be consistent with the General Plan land use designation of Low Density Residential (LR-7), which is intended to preserve residential neighborhoods. The proposed expansion to the existing private school will contribute to the creation of a complete neighborhood, as intended by the General Plan. Furthermore, approval of this application would be consistent with several goals and policies of the General Plan, specifically Goals 1, 2, 3, and 4 of the Land Use (LU) Element as discussed below. Goal LU-1 seeks to provide a land use plan that improves the quality of life and respects the existing community. Moreover, Policy LU-1.1 seeks to foster the compatibility between land uses to enhance livability and promote healthy lifestyles. The proposed project will continue to provide a private school to the surrounding community, without disrupting the existing community. As mentioned above, the church campus is not accessed from any of the surrounding residential communities. Therefore, the proposed school building will maintain the aspect of the neighborhood while providing an added service to the community. Goal LU-2 seeks to provide a balance of land uses that meet Santa Ana’s diverse needs. Moreover, Policy LU-2.3 seeks to provide a diversity of land uses that support residents, visitors, and businesses, such as areas for community gatherings. The proposed project will continue to provide a school use where the community can gather during hours of operation and/or during special events. Goal LU-3 seeks to preserve and improve the character of existing neighborhoods and districts. Moreover, Policy LU-3.1 supports new development which provides a net community benefit and contributes to neighborhood character and identity. The proposed project will provide additional square footage to the existing school use and church campus. As mentioned above, the new school building will not disrupt the existing neighborhood. Additionally, the proposed architecture is meant to improve the site’s character and the surrounding community. Goal LU-4 supports a sustainable City through improvements to the built environment and a culture of collaboration. Policy LU-4.1, promotes complete neighborhoods by encouraging a mix of complementary uses, community services, and people places within a walkable area. As proposed, the Project will