Bixby Ranch Plans to Be Forum Topic

Hoping to answer residents’ questions about the development proposed for some of Bixby Ranch Co.’s property in north Seal Beach, the City Council has scheduled a public forum Monday at City Hall.

Residents from College Park East--a neighborhood north of the Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station and east of the Bixby property--have been wary that any development would change the character of their community.

Bixby Ranch has put about 23 acres of commercially zoned property on the market. About seven acres are next to College Park East.

For years, a group of residents has been tracking interest in the property, what Bixby Ranch officials have proposed and where the City Council stands on the issue.

City Manager Keith Till said the forum will give residents an opportunity to express their concerns and learn how the development process works.

Lee Whittenberg, the city’s director of development services, said only oil company Atlantic Richfield has applied to begin a project: a mini-market and gas station. Because of zoning restrictions, though, the city cannot consider the proposal, he said.

Marriott Corp. has inquired about building a senior citizens extended-care facility but has not submitted a formal application, he said. “We anticipate that they will,” Whittenberg said.

Extended Stay America Inc., a Florida-based hotel group that caters to business travelers, has inquired about the process for building on the property, officials said.

Monday’s forum will begin at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 211 8th St.

Information: (562) 431-2527.