Residents of Old Pasadena voiced strong opposition during a recent city council meeting regarding a proposed zoning change that would allow for a significant increase in residential units near their neighborhood. The proposal, which aims to rezone land currently occupied by a church and a preschool, has sparked concerns about its potential impact on the character, traffic, and property values of the area.

Multiple speakers, including long-time residents, emphasized the historic and unique nature of Old Pasadena, arguing that the proposed development would disrupt the neighborhood's low-density character. One resident highlighted that the area has been home to families for generations and that the existing zoning plan should be upheld to preserve its integrity. \"You don't need to fix something that's not broken,\" they stated, urging the council to consider the unanimous recommendation from the Community Planning and Preservation Commission (CPPC) to deny the request.

Concerns were raised about the potential increase in traffic and density, with residents fearing that the addition of 80 to 160 new units would overwhelm local roads and diminish the quality of life. One speaker noted that the neighborhood is already experiencing traffic issues, making it difficult for families to navigate safely. Another resident pointed out that the proposed development could lead to a significant increase in the number of dwelling units, which would not align with the existing single-family home character of the area.

While some acknowledged the church's financial struggles and the need for its success, many argued that this should not come at the expense of the neighborhood's well-being. \"There are other ways for the church to be successful without sacrificing the integrity of this community,\" one speaker asserted.

The meeting highlighted a broader debate about balancing development needs with community preservation, as residents called for a focus on maintaining the unique character of Old Pasadena. The city council is expected to deliberate further on the proposal, weighing the community's concerns against the potential benefits of increased housing options.