An upcoming measure on the November ballot could increase height limits for buildings along Orange Avenue, a change driven by state mandate.
In 1972, city voters passed a cap restricting residential buildings to three stories, or 35 feet. However, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) now requires Coronado to adhere to a new limit of four stories, or 42 feet.
“To reduce potential development constraints, HCD required the City’s Housing Element to include Program H-1.F, which lists a suite of actions the City must take to remain in compliance with state housing law,” said a city staff report.
“Among the actions is a commitment to put a new measure on the ballot that would increase height within the R4 Zone to a maximum of 4 stories and 42 feet for all properties subject to this zoning designation.”
The current height restrictions constrain development and density along the corridor, according to the report.
Because the height limit was enacted by voters, it can only be changed by a vote of the people, or a change in state law.
City Attorney Johanna Canlas
“Because the height limit was enacted by voters, it can only be changed by a vote of the people, or a change in state law,” City Attorney Johanna Canlas explained.
Canlas, along with Councilmembers Carrie Anne Downey and Kelly Purvis, said the City Council’s only obligation was to put the measure on the ballot, leaving the final decision entirely up to the voters to ensure state compliance.
The city is not deciding on this change. All members voted unanimously to pass this resolution.
