In Arcadia, a city in Los Angeles County with a significant Chinese population, there’s growing concern over an affordable housing project named Elara. This development plans to construct 95 apartment units, with 45 designated as permanent supportive housing for the homeless. Construction is anticipated to commence next year, with move-in dates set for 2027.

According to the project details, the building will be located in the southern part of Arcadia, near El Monte, specifically at 4217 East Live Oak Ave, which falls under an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County.

Currently, the Elara housing project is in the approval phase, with plans to break ground by December 2025. The developer, Affirmed Housing, headquartered in San Diego, aims to create 95 apartments—48 units reserved for low-income families and the remaining 45 as permanent supportive housing, intended for individuals currently experiencing homelessness.

The announcement of permanent supportive housing in a predominantly Chinese neighborhood has left many local residents in shock. During the city council meeting on October 15, several residents expressed their concerns about the project. Many fear that the completion of the apartments could attract a significant number of homeless individuals to Arcadia, posing serious safety risks to the community. Since the project is located in an unincorporated area, the Arcadia city government lacks jurisdiction over it. However, three city council members, including Mayor Michael Cao and Councilmembers Bo Ren Zheng and Ailin Wang, emphasized their commitment to addressing the community’s concerns. They pledged to gather public opinion and take necessary actions.

Mayor Cao has already reached out to Kathryn Barger, a member of the county board, to voice his worries regarding the Elara housing project. He expressed disappointment over the approval of such a large-scale plan without prior notification to nearby cities or consultation with residents.

Councilmember Zheng acknowledged that while providing housing for vulnerable populations is an important issue, it’s essential to carefully consider whether the project aligns with the long-term interests of Arcadia. He cautioned that such developments could negatively impact local property values, strain city resources, and increase traffic congestion.