The decision clears one of the final regulatory steps for the development, though other hurdles remain.<\/p>\n
SACRAMENTO, Calif. \u2014 A controversial development planned for North Natomas<\/a> cleared a key regulatory hurdle Wednesday after a local agency approved annexing the land into the city of Sacramento, allowing the project to move forward.<\/p>\n The Sacramento Local Agency Formation Commission<\/a>, known as Sacramento LAFCO, voted to approve annexation for the Airport South Industrial Project<\/a>, bringing about 450 acres near Interstate 5 and Powerline Road into Sacramento city limits.<\/p>\n The decision clears one of the final regulatory steps for the development, though other hurdles remain. A court ruling is still pending in a lawsuit challenging the project.<\/p>\n The Airport South Industrial Project would bring warehouses, hotels and restaurants to an unincorporated stretch of land near\u00a0Sacramento International Airport<\/a>.<\/p>\n Developer representatives told commissioners the proposal reflects years of planning and outreach.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is an effort shaped by 5 years of detailed planning and technical analyzes and sustained community engagement. We are excited to final be here before you,” said Nick Avids, a developer representative.<\/p>\n Supporters say the development could bring jobs, new tax revenue and economic opportunity to the region.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is going to be a big win, not just for the local tax base, but a win for union members and working families,” said a support during Wednesday’s meeting.<\/p>\n But residents nearby and environmental groups say the project raises serious concerns, including traffic congestion, the loss of farmland and the development\u2019s proximity to Paso Verde School<\/a> in Natomas.<\/p>\n \u201cThe staff report which you are asked to make this decision, we believe is incomplete and misleading,” Heather Fargo, during Wednesday public comment.<\/p>\n