MOORPARK : Developer’s Plan Angers Homeowners

Some Moorpark homeowners are angry about a developer’s plan to build smaller and cheaper homes in their neighborhood--a move they fear would undercut property values.

The company’s plan, which would require a zoning change, will be heard by the Moorpark City Council tonight.

Urban West Communities wants to build 236 multifamily homes along Mountain Trail Street. The area was originally mapped out for luxury houses, but the developers changed the proposal as home sales sagged over the last four years. The new homes include triplexes and several clustered detached family homes that are more affordable for the average buyer.

But local residents who live in other homes built by Urban West said the new development would reduce the value of their own modestly priced homes.

Todd Mihn, who owns a year-old house next to the proposed development, said Urban West plans to build several homes that are bigger than his but cost about $30,000 less.

“How are we going to sell our homes when someone can get a new one that’s bigger and $30,000 cheaper,” he said. “A large chunk of our down payment would just disappear before our eyes if these were built.”

Mihn said he resented the company for changing the plans for the 2,500-home master planned community just as it was finishing the project.

“Urban West has been in Moorpark a long time,” he said. “But right when they are down to their last parcel, it’s like they have a fire sale on what’s left.”

The City Council will consider the zoning change during its meeting tonight at 7 at Moorpark City Hall, 799 Moorpark Ave.