Montebello · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Montebello public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Zoning Updates: ADUs, Landscaping, and AI Data Center Ban
Staff announced a special Planning Commission meeting on February 10 to present the city's comprehensive rezoning ordinance — the first real zoning overhaul since the zoning map was drawn in 2014 and the code tied to a 1973-era General Plan. It's meant to bring zoning in line with the current General Plan and streamline development review.
Citywide prohibition on AI data centers
A resident warned the council about a proposed 250,000-square-foot AI data center in Monterey Park near the Montebello border, citing water, power and emissions concerns and urging the city's SCAG representative to raise it.
SB 79 Moratorium on Washington Boulevard Transit-Oriented Development
The city has a temporary 45-day freeze on accepting, processing, or approving certain SB 79-related development applications within the Washington Boulevard Transit-Oriented Development Specific Plan area. Tonight's vote just filed the legally required status report — the pause itself remains in effect.
Alcohol license upgrade at Montebello Jr. Market
The family restaurant on Whittier Boulevard can now round out the dining experience with beer and wine served with meals, keeping a long-time restaurant location active.
Revocation of dormant commercial cannabis permits
Two cannabis businesses that stopped operating — Saint's Place at 728 South Vail and GW Montebello at 1616 Beach Street — lost their city permits for abandoning their sites and owing the city tens of thousands of dollars. This clears the way for the properties to be reused, though the city currently bans new cannabis applications.
Zoning code overhaul for 6th Cycle RHNA compliance
Montebello's zoning code currently doesn't allow mixed-use (housing over shops) in commercial zones. This package would change that along Beverly, Montebello, Whittier, Washington, and Garfield corridors, require at least 50% residential space in mixed-use buildings, and fast-track projects with 20% affordable units. The City Council makes the final decision.