Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Montebello public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in development
Prohousing Designation Program participation
Speakers described homelessness and the lack of wheelchair-accessible, affordable housing in Montebello, urging the council to act despite community opposition to new housing projects.
Court-ordered approval of 301 Jackamar housing project
A judge ruled the city's denial of developer Bill Molinari's project violated the Housing Accountability Act, so the council had to implement the court order approving it. Residents are furious — many collected hundreds of signatures against the 15-unit project and feel the city's legal defense failed them.
Round One Entertainment at The Shops of Montebello
Round One wants to open a Japanese food hall and arcade venue with a full liquor license at the mall, filling a big vacant tenant space. It's being framed as a way to bring families, jobs, and foot traffic back to a mall that many residents remember from its busier days.
New Planet Fitness at Montebello Mix Shopping Center
A 24/7 gym is filling the long-vacant former Rite Aid space, adding jobs and foot traffic to the center. A nearby resident raised concerns about bright signage on Montebello Boulevard affecting her home; that signage will go through a separate permit review.
Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD)
The council took the first step toward an EIFD that could capture up to $90 million in future property tax growth along major corridors for infrastructure, parks, and affordable housing — with no new taxes and no eminent domain. Some residents feared it echoes the old redevelopment agency and eminent domain fights.