Tustin · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Tustin public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
15-unit residential development at 17332 Irvine Boulevard
The Olson Company wants to rezone a piece of Irvine Boulevard property from professional office to residential and build 15 condos. The commission put off the decision to November 10, so the debate — and any public testimony — is still ahead.
Affordable Housing Preservation at Chatham Village Apartments
A developer is buying the 350-unit Chatham apartment complex on McFadden, where 212 affordable units were set to lose their covenants at the end of next year. The new owner plans rehab work and extending the affordability covenants — good news for those residents.
Tustin Legacy Senior Living Development Agreement
The city approved an agreement to build a new 172-unit active adult senior housing and congregate care facility at Tustin Legacy. The project includes 15% affordable units and brings much-needed senior housing options to the area, though a five-year non-compete clause drew a dissenting vote from Council Member Fink.
Mariners Church Development at Tustin Legacy
The council finalized the second reading of a development agreement for Mariners Church to build a 33,422-square-foot religious assembly facility at Tustin Legacy. While supporters highlighted community demand, critics questioned the lack of binding guarantees for public use of the facilities.
Old Town Revitalization and Infrastructure Updates
Temporary permits are opening the new Old Town parklets for outdoor dining while long-term designs (patio covers and such) go through review — but the draft license agreement is silent on strollers and dogs. Commissioner Gullo has repeatedly pushed for clarity. Separately, broader Old Town parking solutions, including the city's partial ownership of a parking structure, remain an open conversation.
Residential Parking District Permit Difficulties
Residents in southwest Tustin face extreme parking shortages due to high population density and outdated multi-family parking requirements. The city's study explored solutions like permit programs, enhanced enforcement, and improved walking infrastructure.
Community Development Department 2026 Mid-Year Report
Tustin's development pipeline is packed: Campo on 17th, 1,300 Irvine Company apartments at Tustin Legacy, a Costco expansion, Dick's House of Sport, a law school campus, and dozens more projects in every corner of the city. Commissioners called it a testament to investment spreading beyond one area.
Tustin Legacy Outreach and Engagement 2026 Update
The city is moving full speed ahead with developing the former Marine Corps Air Station, balancing new housing, retail, and massive open-space parks. Officials gathered resident input at an AMC theater to shape the master plan, discussing everything from the historic hangars to pedestrian bridges.
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Code Updates
Tustin is forced to update local zoning laws to comply with state ADU rules, despite local concerns over parking and neighborhood compatibility.