Lisa Mailhot | October 1, 2024
Buyers
In Rancho Cordova, the American River has long been a cherished natural and cultural landmark, valued by both locals and the native community. However, a proposed housing development by Trumark Homes is now stirring up controversy as residents and advocates work to protect this vital area from significant changes.
The developer aims to build over 400 housing units on a 40-acre plot, including $30 million homes overlooking the river. Twenty acres of this development would be in a designated floodway, drawing concerns from environmentalists, cultural advocates, and local citizens. Mark Berry of the Preserve the American River group has voiced his concerns, emphasizing that this proposal would involve building a six-foot-high retaining wall near the river bluff. This plan could significantly alter the landscape.
While housing development is necessary, especially in California’s booming market, Vince LaPena, a guest speaker at a local event organized by the Preserve the American River group, argued for a more thoughtful approach. He pointed out that the proposed area serves as a cultural landscape native peoples use for food, traditional medicine, and basket-making materials. LaPena and other advocates believe that while development is essential, it should not come at the cost of erasing cultural heritage and damaging wildlife habitats.
Despite Trumark Homes submitting the project under Senate Bill 330, which allows for expedited housing development, local opposition continues to grow. The city of Rancho Cordova has not yet approved the proposal, citing concerns about the inability to meet objective standards, including the restrictions on filling floodways. The debate over this development raises important questions about balancing housing needs with environmental protection and cultural preservation.
The community’s resilience in protecting the American River reminds them of the deep-rooted ties people have to the land and their willingness to stand up for its future.
If you’re considering moving to Orange County and value community and preservation, let’s connect. Your future home awaits, and so does the chance to be a part of a mindful, sustainable future.
The construction of single-family homes remained slow in May as builders face the dual challenges of high interest rates and tariff-related cost increases. Learn how t… Read more
Discover how strategic paint choices can increase the value of your property listings. A new Zillow study reveals the best colors to use for boosting home value. Find … Read more
Homebuyer down payments are shrinking for the first time in nearly two years, revealing key shifts in the U.S. housing market. FHA and VA loans are gaining popularity,… Read more
With property taxes on the rise, senior homeowners are feeling the pinch—especially in high-value areas like Orange County. This blog explores how 16 states (plus D.C.… Read more
Despite mortgage rates holding steady in the high 6% range, improving housing inventory is driving renewed buyer interest. Last week, purchase loan applications surged… Read more
In 2024, investors made up 11% of all U.S. home sales — the highest in over 20 years — as they raced to cut losses amid softening markets and easing rents. Learn how t… Read more
Could a no-shoes policy really help you sell your home for more? Discover how pristine flooring can elevate your property’s value, impress buyers, and create a cleaner… Read more
If you're stuck with a mortgage that's higher than your home's current value, you're not alone. Learn what it means to be underwater on your mortgage, why it happens, … Read more
Nearly three-quarters of U.S. homeowners say they’d rather be home than anywhere else. In this blog, we explore how Americans feel about their homes, what it takes to … Read more
Let's find a time that suits you best to chat about your goals, show you how we work, and figure out how we can help you the most