In a move that echoes the broader debates on urban development and environmental preservation, Anaheim City Council decided to reject the Hills Preserve apartment and commercial space project early Wednesday. The proposed development would have seen the construction of a seven-story building hosting 498 upscale apartments, and an adjoining 40,000-square-foot commercial space. Despite these plans, concerns regarding the scale of the development, fire risk, and evacuation needs ultimately swayed the council's decision. According to the official announcement, the Council voted 5-2 against the proposal.

Set against the backdrop of the scenic Deer Canyon Park Preserve, this 76-acre private property adjacent to the park would have also included 50 acres of open space preservation. Yet, vocal opposition from locals, as evidenced by the more than 400 written comments and over 60 speakers at the city council meeting, indicates a community deeply divided on the matter, as per the City of Anaheim. Despite the rejection, it's worth noting that some residents and construction trade unions were in favor of the Hills Preserve project.

Mayor Ashleigh Aitken and Council members Jose Diaz, Natalie Rubalcava, Steve Faessel, and Natalie Meeks, who represent District 6 where the development was proposed stood at the forefront of the decision to turn down the project. On the other hand, SALT Development LLC, the Salt Lake City-based developer behind the project, has several routes available post-rejection. An appeal could be lodged on procedural grounds or a rehearing could be requested on due process arguments within seven days of the initial approval, as reported by the City of Anaheim. Failure to act within 30 days post-rehearing is tantamount to the council's rejection.