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Planners approve change to zoning of land in Lebec

The Bakersfield Californian | Thursday, Feb 14 2008 10:25 PM

Last Updated: Thursday, Feb 14 2008 10:30 PM

A zone change for 22 acres in Lebec was approved by the Kern County Planning Commission Thursday despite some objections from mountain residents.

The land, at the southwest corner of Lebec Road and Houser Avenue, has been vacant for many years.

Applicants James and Emilie Wainright want to divide the land into 32 residential lots. James Wainright is now deceased.

Bob Mills asked the commission if the proposed development would be too dense for the land. He said the community doesn't have tract homes and adding them would change Lebec's character.

But resident George Friedl thinks the development would enhance the area.

In other action, the commission approved:

* Eliminating future road reservations on 2,530 acres of U.S. Borax property to create a conservation easement to protect endangered species.

* Taking action against a mine, including a $4,000 fine and revoking a surface mining permit, against CALEX Engineering Company for numerous violations in its mining operations near Tehachapi.

* Granting a permit to allow Calvary Chapel of Ridgecrest to add a new sanctuary, offices and a bookstore and keep two cargo containers on its land.

* Granting commercial zoning for 61/2 acres at Tracy Avenue next to Interstate 5 as requested by applicant Rio Bravo Vista LLC.