On Tuesday, you heard from several residents concerned about the Elara “Arcadia” development, which is planned for 4217 Live Oak Ave. As we stated, this is in the County unincorporated area, even if they have an Arcadia mailing address.
As such, we have no direct authority over the development. A virtual meeting was held on Monday. Here is a brief report from our staff member that attended:
• It ran from 5pm to about 6.30pm. with at least 2 dozen people commenting. Comments ranged from “how do I stop this” to questions regarding height, density, and other project specifics. Many people focused on the fact that there’s effectively no parking for the project.
• The project was entitled around 12 months ago. As a fully affordable project, there was no discretionary review and no noticing required. They’re still finalizing the design of the building, but the concept has been approved.
• The only reason for this meeting was because it’s a requirement for the grant funding from LA County Development Authority.
• This area was chosen “because it has great access to services,” according to the applicant team.
• Some project details of note:
• 95 units total, including studios, 1- and 2-bedroom units
• Rents will range from $728 to $1,872, depending on household income and unit size. Households will pay roughly 30% of their income toward rent and utilities.
• Half the units will be Section 8, for people who have previously experienced homelessness. These folks will be in the extremely low-income category. The other units will be for people at 60% area median income and below.
• While units will be reserved for the formerly homeless, this is not an emergency shelter or
something like the Tiny Homes concept. These will be units for people who have stabilized enough to maintain a predictable living environment and pay rents regularly.
• There will be a 24/7 onsite manager and security. There will also be onsite support services provided by a partner organization.
• They will provide complete wraparound services for whatever service someone needs – for
example, mental health/drug addiction counseling, job training, basic legal services, etc.
• There will be a maximum of 2 people per bedroom allowed.
• Sex offenders and people convicted of manufacturing drugs will not be allowed to live in the property.
• The comment period ends Oct 15. Comments can be sent to:
Elara
c/o Clay Co
2245 Diego Avenue, #222
• For project information, go to: https://www.elaraarcadia.com/
• It’s due to open in early 2028, with construction starting in 2026.
We are preparing a letter for Mayor Cao’s signature expressing concerns and questions raised by residents. We are also preparing a City webpage and social media information directing people to the County and Elara developers comments and questions on the project.
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