Update # 33 Trial Has Been Set

Yes, the Silver Spur Canyon project is still tied up in litigation, but we have news - a date has been set for trial: February 5, 2027. If you recall, this lawsuit is about whether or not developer Jha filed an appropriate Builder’s Remedy application in a timely fashion. This is not about whether the project is approved or not.

The City alleges he withdrew his original application and only attempted to refile a substantially changed application after the Builder’s Remedy window closed. Jha alleges he did not withdraw his application but only revised it, it was not substantially changed, and even if he did withdraw it the window had not closed yet for a new application. If his application is ruled invalid by the court, he will likely appeal up the court system. If he ultimately loses, the project is dead.

If the City of Rancho Palos Verdes loses the case, they also have the right to appeal. Recent housing laws have unfortunately made appeals by city governments against developers very expensive. If the city decides not to appeal, the project approval process will move forward. At that point there will likely be a fight over what rights Jha has to an “expedited” review process. More on that when we get to that step.