Old apartments by Tustin High give way to new condos
March 10, 2005

Byline:GEORGE STEWART The Tustin News

The City Council gave final approval Monday night to allow Nevis Tustin, LLC, to demolish a 65-unit apartment complex and replace it with a 93-unit condominium subdivision.

The Cottages apartments were built on a 5-acre parcel at 1361 El Camino Real, next to Tustin High School, in 1963. Nevis plans to build two-, three- and four-bedroom condos with, two-car garages and up to three floors there.

Ranging in size from 1,560-square feet to 2,035-square feet and in price from $400,000 to $500,000, they will have a Spanish theme to the architecture.

The condos will be built in 24 buildings around a pool and recreation area that will include a spa, a shower, a fountain, restrooms, an outdoor fireplace and a seating area.

The company has a relocation plan for the tenants, giving four months notice at half rent, from May to August. It also includes the return of security deposits and help with moving expenses, as well as a place on a priority list for those who wish to purchase one of the new condos. Occupants also may relocate to one of four other properties Nevis owns in the area.

"We'll be working with them on a case-by-case basis," said Steve Sheldon, representing Nevis.

One tenant, Danny Aguilar, said he supports the project but complained that the management was not making proper repairs to the apartments while the tenants still live there.

"I want to work diligently to get things done," Aguilar said, "but we're expecting high-quality management in the meantime. We want to go with the flow and move on with our lives."

The design and plan for the project won high praise from the council.

"We've all been working with the developer for a long time," said Mayor Pro Tem Doug Davert.

"They're going beyond the requirements to help the tenants. I support this project whole-heartedly."

The council voted 5-0 for approval of plans and environmental documentation for the project.

gstewart@ocregister.com