Council Votes Unanimously to Have City Staff Study Property Exchange with the Irvine Company

The Irvine City Council has authorized city staff to negotiate with the Irvine Company on a plan to develop the Oak Creek Golf Course into a residential village featuring 3,100 units and a new elementary school. The Irvine Company's proposal includes offering 1,000 to 2,000 housing vouchers to assist families at risk of homelessness, a significant public benefit amid growing housing demands. Mayor Larry Agran noted the urgency of addressing current housing needs while acknowledging the mixed public response to the plan. Some residents, particularly those associated with the Oak Creek Golf Club, expressed concerns about losing open space and sports opportunities for youth. The proposal also includes a long-term lease for a community center and a payment of $90.

4 million in community benefit fees over the next eight years. Critics argue that the plan's approach to affordable housing lacks permanence, contrasting with the city’s usual requirements. The council's unanimous support reflects a commitment to addressing immediate housing needs while balancing community concerns. The outcome of further negotiations will determine the project's final structure and its impact on the community.