THE HUNTINGTON BEACH City Council on Tuesday night approved the 51-acre Sea Dance single family house tract on the former Franklin School site.

By Jim Tortolano

When a new development comes before a city council, it’s not uncommon for a parade of citizens to sally forth to complain or warn about crowding, traffic, parking and other concerns.

But at Monday night’s meeting of the Huntington Beach City Council, the opposite happened. Nine people spoke on the 51-home Sea Dance project and all nine were in favor.

“It’s really refreshing to hear only supportive comments from the public,” said Councilwoman Lyn Semeta.

“These homes will fit the neighborhood,” said Sean Haller, a neighbor to the development. “They will improve property values for everyone.”

The council voted 7-0 to approve the projectat the former Franklin School site at 14422 Hammon Dr., in an area west of Springdale Street and southeast of Rancho Road.

The development on the 8.75-acre site will include a 1.3-acre public park. Originally owned and operated by the Westminster School District, the Franklin site opened in 1962 and was closed in 1994.

Also at Monday night’s meeting, the council approved introduction of an ordinance making shared mobility devices – typically scooters and bicycles – or businesses unlawful.

Additionally, during public comments, several people spoke against the candidacy of Gracey Van Der Mark for a position on the Ocean View School District governing board, claiming she was affiliated with extremist alt-right groups.  She currently serves on the City of Huntington Beach’s finance commission, an appointee of Councilman Patrick Brenden.

The next meeting of the city council is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 5.