This week, a pivotal special election in Glendale has thrown a wrench into the plans for a high-profile $1.2 billion resort development. Voters delivered a split decision, leaving city officials and developers uncertain about the project’s trajectory.
While Proposition 401 did not pass, Proposition 402 received voter approval, casting doubt on the future of the ambitious VAI Resort project. Proposition 401 aimed to amend the city’s general plan for rezoning 10 acres for parking and office spaces associated with the resort. Conversely, Proposition 402, which passed, modifies zoning laws to permit commercial development on the site.
The campaign supporting the propositions remains in limbo, as representatives have yet to determine the implications of the mixed results. City officials, too, are awaiting legal guidance from the city attorney regarding the outcome’s impact on the project.
Over 27,000 residents participated in the vote, spurred by a grassroots movement concerned about fee waivers and prior zoning decisions linked to the resort.
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Opposition to the development, led by the labor organization Worker Power, claims the election results highlight a desire among Glendale’s citizens for more involvement in city planning. Over 5,000 signatures were gathered to qualify these propositions for the ballot.
Brendan Walsh, executive director of Worker Power, stated that the vote reflects residents’ reluctance to amend the zoning from parks and open spaces to allow for construction of a parking lot and office building.
Proponents of the resort, such as VAI Resort CEO Grant Fisher, view the approval of Proposition 402 as progress. Fisher stated, “Glendale residents voted to support the VAI resort rezoning. This result is a step in the right direction, and we look forward to bringing new jobs and new tax revenues to the City of Glendale.”
The development is projected to generate over 2,000 jobs and $2.2 billion in tax revenue. However, Glendale’s Vice Mayor Lauren Tolmachoff hinted at potential delays if both propositions did not pass, as she mentioned to KJZZ News last week.
Despite these setbacks, parts of the resort’s construction will continue. Worker Power signaled this vote as the beginning of a larger movement toward fairer and more sustainable development practices.
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