revenue, supported by a C.A.R. Overlay to “promote auto dealerships.” Another pending project is the Park Sorrento Apartments, featuring 100 units with over 20 designated as affordable. Projects like these show how the City’s General Plan supports economic vitality and diverse, affordable housing options. A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO SUSTAINABILITY Calabasas’s approach to sustainability is comprehensive,encompassing not just environmental conservation but also innovative practices in water management and energy use. “Open space preservation is critical,” Klein emphasizes. Central to this effort is Measure O, an ordinance that requires any rezoning of open space to go to a communitywide vote, needing approval by two-thirds of the city’s voters. This measure ensures that existing open space remains protected, preventing any one group from making changes at their discretion. Klein describes this as a strong reinforcement of the city’s focus on conservation. In addition to Measure O, Calabasas has a Tax Default Acquisition Program that allows the city to acquire properties in tax default and convert them into additional open space, further expanding the city’s protected areas. Oaktree preservation is another crucial component of Calabasas’s environmental efforts, vital for maintaining the natural habitat and contributing to the community’s ecological health. Beyond this, the city has embarked on several sustainability initiatives aimed at enhancing the environment. One notable project is the Las Virgenes Creek Restoration Program. Phases one and two have already been completed, focusing on cleaning up the creek and replacing concrete sections with more natural surroundings. Calabasas is further advancing sustainability through the Green Street program that captures rainwater in landscaped medians, enhancing streetscapes while efficiently managing water resources. Its Civic Center was built with sustainability in mind, with Klein noting,“The city hall... was certified through USGBC as a LEED Gold building.” Through the Clean Power Alliance, Calabasas sources 100% renewable energy via Southern California Edison unless residents optout. Additionally, the city supports the Pure Water Project, aiming to convert recycled water into potable water through advanced filtration, further boosting water conservation efforts. STRATEGIC PRIORITIES FOR THE FUTURE Looking ahead, Calabasas is focused on a set of strategic priorities designed to maintain and enhance the city’s quality of life. These priorities reflect a commitment to not only preserving what makes 67 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10 CALABASAS, CA
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