• Settlement
• Intro
• WHO
• WHAT
• WHERE
• WHY
• FAQ
• Documents

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

A: We’re not opposed to the concept of new development. We think there are some good things about this project. But, overall, Palladium at Aero is just TOO BIG. It does not fit in with the residential community of Serra Mesa, and it doesn’t fit in with the commercial/industrial neighborhood of Kearny Mesa.

We’d like to see Aero Drive get “freshened up,” but within reason. Palladium at Aero is out-of-scale and out-of-character. So we’re suing to SHRINK it and make it fit in with its surroundings.

Also, this is just the first of many projects to come along Aero Drive, so we want to make sure that this project is done right. When the next project gets built on Aero, those developers will use Palladium as a model. It was rushed through the approval process, and we want it to be fully reviewed and all of its impacts understood before it goes forward.

Q: This is horrible! Why are you just trying to shrink this? Why not try to stop it completely?

A: Mostly because we’re trying to be realistic. We believe we will win if we ask a judge to force the developer and the City to design a project that complies with the environmental laws and land use codes. But if we just stamp our feet and say “No, no, no!” then we’ll get ignored as NIMBY’s and we’ll end up with something like Palladium, way too big for the site.

Remember, too, that the City wants to see most of Aero Drive redeveloped in this manner, so this project sets a precedent. The next project could be proposed at five stories, or six!

Q: Can I help other than by giving money?

A: Absolutely! We need help raising awareness, especially in our door-to-door campaign. You can also write letters to the editor, tell your friends and neighbors, etc. Contact us and we’ll connect you with our team.

Do you know anyone in the media that would help us with coverage? Do you know a neighbor who is doing well financially, and might be willing to make a major donation, or loan?

You can also get involved in our Serra Mesa community organizations, like the Community Council, Planning Group, Recreation Council, Friends of the Library, and Friends of Ruffin Canyon. By becoming involved and helping to revitalize our neighborhood, you’ll be showing future developers that we already have a thriving community that has no place for oversize projects. And you’ll meet your neighbors and have a great time!

Q: Can I complain to the City Council about this?

A: Sure! But it won’t do much good. The City Council has already voted to approve Palladium at Aero. The only way left to fight this project is in court. That’s why the Serra Mesa Community Council needs your financial support to pay our attorney’s fees and court costs. We’re not asking for much - just $35 from 250 Serra Mesans will meet our March goal. See our How To Help page for more details.

There will be more projects like this in the future, and they will have opportunities for you to speak up at the Planning Commission and City Council. If you want to know about them in advance, come to the monthly meetings of the Serra Mesa Planning Group (www.serramesa.org/smpg) and/or sign up for the email list on that web page.

A: We publish updates on the status of the lawsuit in the Observer, the bi-monthly publication of the Serra Mesa Community Council. You can join the SMCC and subscribe to the Observer at this link. An electronic reprint of the latest update is also available here.