Smaller Housing Project for Disabled Approved

A low-cost housing project for the mentally disabled has been approved by the Anaheim City Council on a 4-1 vote despite the objections of residents who live near the site.

Dozens spoke out at a public hearing six weeks ago, arguing that the project would bring undesirables into their community.

The council shelved the plan, saying that its 33 units -- most of them studios or one-bedroom apartments -- did little to address the city’s shortage of low-cost family housing.

Lisa Stipkovich, Anaheim’s director of community development, said the project was approved this week after being revised to include 25 one- and two-bedroom units to accommodate more families.