WESTMINSTER CITY COUNCIL.

By Jim Tortolano/Orange County Tribune

After a lengthy public hearing and much back-and-forth on the details, a conditional use permit and other actions for the development of 54 multi-family units – including 53 lower-income senior housing rental units – was approved by the Westminster City Council on Wednesday night.

The vote was 4-0 with Mayor Chi Charlie Nguyen recusing himself because he owned nearby property.

The “Milton Manor” project will be located at 13800, 13802 and 13812 Milton Avenue.

That’s located east of the San Diego (405) Freeway and north of Westminster Boulevard.

Much of the discussion centered around the details of the development including the location of sidewalks, parking, elevators, etc. As part of the final approval, the developer and city will work together on questions raised about the sidewalks.

Some members of the council expressed frustration about how state law now makes it difficult to refuse to approve housing projects.

“Our hands are tied,” remarked Councilmember Carlos Manzo.