The Daily Signal California’s SB-79 Is Quietly Redefining Neighborhoods Without Voter Consent |Elaine Culotti
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Jan 15, 2026 California's SB 79 is quietly reshaping local neighborhoods without public consent. This legislation, initially supported for its housing initiatives near transit hubs, may lead to high-density housing developments in unexpected areas. Local officials are co-opting upscale retail plans to incorporate unpopular housing. The restructuring raises concerns over private property rights and community impact. Many are now urging the repeal of SB 79 to protect single-family residential zones and prevent potential legal conflicts.
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SB‑79’s Transit Loophole Expands Reach
- SB 79 was sold as promoting housing near transit and thus attracted little public opposition.
- Elaine Culotti warns the bill's transit restriction can be retrofitted to areas without existing transit, expanding impact unexpectedly.
Puck And Gehry’s Palisades Project
- Elaine Culotti describes the Gladstones parcel at PCH and Sunset as a four‑plus acre landmark planned for a Wolfgang Puck and Frank Gehry retail center.
- The project secured approvals after public outreach and planning review before fires interrupted the timeline.
Coastal Commission Adds Transit District
- After fires, the parcel served disaster response, then a Coastal Commission meeting added a transit district to the PCH/Sunset plan.
- Culotti says the meeting was poorly advertised and removed several hundred parking spaces, surprising locals.