Wildfire Threat Becomes Tool to Fight Home Builders
West Coast Land Use and Environmental attorney Jennifer Hernandez was quoted in a Yahoo News article about recent home development disputes in California related to wildfires. Developers in the state have argued that they already consider wildfire risks in their plans, comply with strict fire codes and adhere to state environmental policies, all while trying to ease the need for more housing. Nevertheless, many of their proposed projects are being denied. Referencing a case where she represents an industry group that sued Calabasas, Ms. Hernandez argued that the city had improperly cited wildfire risks by denying a 180-unit development. She noted that developers are adjusting to changes in the environmental review law but insisted that the attorney general’s office should issue a public policy.
"The ad hoc nature of unexpected interventions by the AG's office does a policy disservice to California housing needs," Ms. Hernandez said.