News Summary
Homeowners in Anaheim Hills have overwhelmingly approved a permanent property tax assessment to maintain a groundwater pump system that prevents landslides. With 73% of votes in favor, the assessment will raise annual property taxes between $395 and $2,500, providing essential funding for the pump system’s operation costs of $340,000 each year. The measure was deemed urgent due to the upcoming rainy season and past landslide incidents in the area. Community engagement was strong, with concerns over the safety of over 300 homes in the region.
Anaheim Hills homeowners have decisively approved a permanent property tax assessment aimed at maintaining a crucial groundwater pump system designed to prevent landslides in the area. The measure passed with 73% of the weighted votes in favor during a recent homeowners’ meeting, reflecting a strong consensus on the necessity of this funding among residents.
The approved assessment will result in increased property taxes for homeowners, with annual rises estimated between $395 and $2,500, while the average increase is expected to be just under $1,000. This funding will sustain the dewatering wells, which are essential for lowering groundwater levels and mitigating the risk of landslides, incurring an operational cost of approximately $340,000 each year.
The urgency for this funding was underscored as the previous financial resources for the pump system were set to expire at the end of the year, coinciding with the onset of the rainy season, which significantly heightens the danger of landslides in the area.
There are more than 300 homes that benefit from this pump system located in the Santiago Geologic Hazard Abatement District. This area, which has a documented history of landslide incidents, notably experienced the devastating 1993 Santiago landslide that caused extensive damage and forced numerous evacuations. In response to that disaster, dewatering wells were installed to manage groundwater levels and decrease future risks.
The Santiago Geologic Hazard Abatement District was established in 1999, initially funded by a $3.5 million settlement from the city, but these funds have since been depleted. Previously, a similar tax assessment for this purpose was narrowly defeated in a May vote, leading residents to review the situation and collect further community input before holding a successful vote on this latest proposal.
Residents, many of whom have experienced the dangers of living in such a precarious area, acknowledged the importance of the pumps following the historical incidents of landslides. Several homeowners actively advocated for the assessment based on their own experiences during the tumultuous events of 1993.
Additionally, the city of Anaheim has agreed to contribute $62,000 annually to assist in funding the maintenance of the pumps, which represents a nearly 50% increase compared to previous financial commitments. However, Councilmember Natalie Rubalcava expressed reservations about raising city contributions to help this predominantly wealthier area.
A total of 169 homeowners participated in the assessment vote, demonstrating a strong engagement with community concerns. Nevertheless, the process faced a legal challenge when one resident filed a written protest, arguing that the assessment violates state law. This protestor has a window of 60 days to pursue legal action should they choose to contest the outcome of the voting.
The approval of this permanent tax assessment marks a significant step for Anaheim Hills residents, ensuring ongoing funding for vital infrastructure that protects their homes from the threatening dangers posed by potential landslides. As the community prepares for the rainy season, the support for this initiative underscores a clear understanding of the risks and the importance of preventive measures in safeguarding their properties and lives.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Demonstrators Protest Proposed Healthcare Cuts in Anaheim
Nationwide Protests Against Trump Policies Planned in SoCal
Anaheim Hills Homeowners Reject Funding for Landslide Prevention Pumps
California’s Business Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities
Parker Vista Affordable Housing Complex Sold for $108 Million
Southern California Wildfires on Track for Record Destruction
Fullerton Community Urged to Support HUB of Hope Food Pantry
Fullerton Considers Transition to Charter City
Additional Resources
- OC Register: Homeowners Approve Tax for Pump System
- Realtor: Anaheim Hills Property Tax Hike
- SFGate: Homeowners Agree on Funding
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Landslides
- KTLA: Residents Concerned about Landslide Prevention
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
