Decision-making power over housing projects lay at the core of a months-long dispute between Fresno City Councilmembers who say they want to make infill housing easier but also want to maintain control over where the projects go.

A 4-3 vote on Thursday gave city staff the ability to approve certain housing projects in places designated for offices, so long as they meet approved criteria.

While some councilmembers said it could result in situations similar to that of a recent controversial 4-story apartment complex near Herndon and Prospect avenues that neighbors opposed, supporters of the plan said it makes housing cheaper by getting government out of the way.

Councilmember Annalisa Perea said that fast-tracking housing on vacant office lots and in office buildings helps satisfy calls t

See Full Page