UPDATE: The Antioch City Council is set to urgently revisit two highly controversial housing projects linked to DeNova Homes Inc. on Tuesday, October 10, 2023. These proposals have drawn scrutiny due to the developer’s connection to an alleged corruption scheme, raising significant community concerns.
The council will discuss the Slatten Ranch Townhomes and Wildflower Station Townhomes 2, multifamily residential projects that could reshape the city’s housing landscape. This follows a September 2023 meeting where council members expressed frustration over state housing mandates and nearly rejected the proposals altogether.
Why does this matter now? Local leaders and residents are worried that these projects, which lack sufficient affordable housing, could undermine Antioch’s long-term economic goals. Councilmember Donald Freitas emphasized the detrimental impact, stating, “People elect us to make decisions that benefit the community. I don’t think these two projects benefit the community.”
The backdrop of these discussions centers around allegations of corruption involving DeNova Homes. In April 2023, federal prosecutors charged the former owner and vice president of the company with corruption for allegedly attempting to bribe a city council member regarding another development, the Aviano project. The unnamed council member reported this to the FBI, raising alarms about the integrity of the development process.
Mayor Ron Bernal highlighted the implications of state legislation, referencing Senate Bill 330, which limits local jurisdictions from delaying housing developments. He stated, “I think this is our first opportunity to actually see the effects of SB 330 and AB 130.” This legislation is forcing cities like Antioch to approve projects that may not align with community interests.
Legal representatives for DeNova Homes argued that the city lacks the authority to reject these projects, citing the Housing Accountability Act. Lawyer Dan Golub warned the council against non-compliance, stating that denying a project meeting all objective standards could lead to severe consequences for local governments.
According to a city staff report, the planning commission recommends that the council approve the vesting tentative subdivision maps and design reviews for both developments. The Slatten Ranch project alone is poised to deliver 129 townhome units on a 6.41-acre site, designated for mixed-use development in the East Lone Tree Specific Plan.
With the council’s decision looming, residents and stakeholders are watching closely. The outcome could significantly influence Antioch’s housing market and broader economic development initiatives. As the council prepares for this critical meeting, the community is urged to stay informed and engaged.
The council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 10, 2023, and will be a pivotal moment for Antioch as it navigates the pressures of housing demands and community integrity.
