Newport Beach City Council Bypasses Your Vote

As part of our community education, I want to make you aware of a very important Newport Beach city council meeting next Tuesday, September 24th. A few weeks ago, our city council voted for a State Housing plan to comply with Sacramento’s push for additional housing. Newport’s “fare share” mandate is zoning for 4,845 new units. However, using a loophole in our City Charter requiring a citywide vote on major development projects, they canceled your vote and zoned for 8,174 new units – 68% more than required. Clearly the Newport Beach Charter requires a vote on development of this scale!  A citizen’s watchdog group has already filed a lawsuit to enforce the City Charter. Click here to learn more and read the lawsuit. Next Tuesday the council will formally adopt this plan – without a citywide vote! It’s time for your voice to be heard.  Newport can comply with the state’s minimum requirement without giving away the farm. Your input can help make a difference. Smooth Sailing, Marshall “Duffy” Duffield Former Mayor & City Councilman Former Harbor Commissioner