City Council Prioritizes Community Input on Morningside Housing Development

The Inglewood City Council is taking a measured, community-focused approach to a proposed residential development on the former Morningside High School site, prioritizing proper public engagement over rushed decision-making.

Demonstrating commitment to transparency and community input, the City Council agreed to reschedule public hearings originally planned for September 30, ensuring residents have adequate time to review proposals and participate meaningfully in the process. The hearings were rescheduled to October 28 to allow for proper notification and community preparation.

Mayor James T. Butts Jr. emphasized the importance of following proper procedures, ensuring the agenda accurately reflects the proposals before the council. “We want community members fully informed and engaged,” Mayor Butts said. “Taking additional time to get this right demonstrates our commitment to transparency.”

The proposed development involves approximately 68 acres that include the former Morningside High School, Clyde Woodworth Elementary School, and vacant land adjacent to Monroe Middle School. The General Plan Amendment seeks to change the Land Use Element Map designation from Low Density to Medium Density, with approximately 23 acres designated for a proposed multiple-family residential development.

A zone change application filed on June 27, 2025, requests rezoning the property from R-1 (One-family Residential) to R3 (Multiple family Residential), representing an opportunity to address Inglewood’s growing housing needs while thoughtfully repurposing former school sites.

City officials note that the development could provide much-needed housing to accommodate population growth driven by the entertainment district’s success and the upcoming 2028 Olympics, while generating tax revenue to support community services.

“We need housing for the people who work in our city’s restaurants, hotels, and venues,” said development advocate Carlos Rodriguez. “This project could provide workforce housing close to job centers, supporting the people who make Inglewood’s success possible.”

Mayor Butts and city planners are working to ensure any development includes community benefits such as affordable housing units, quality construction, adequate parking, and design elements that complement the surrounding neighborhood.

“Our goal is development that serves our community’s needs,” Mayor Butts emphasized. “We’re committed to projects that provide housing while respecting neighborhood character and ensuring current residents benefit from growth.”

The City Council’s decision to delay hearings reflects responsiveness to community feedback and commitment to proper procedures under California’s Ralph M. Brown Act, which requires local agencies to provide proper public notice for meetings and agenda items, particularly for significant decisions like general plan amendments and zone changes.

“Mayor Butts and the Council are ensuring we follow the letter and spirit of open meeting laws,” said City Attorney Dawn Bingham. “This deliberate approach demonstrates commitment to community engagement and transparent governance.”

The October 28 public hearing will provide residents extensive opportunity to review the development’s specifics, including building heights, parking requirements, affordable housing provisions, and environmental impacts, and to voice concerns or suggestions.

City officials are encouraging community participation in the public comment process, viewing resident input as essential to shaping development that serves Inglewood’s long-term interests.

The Morningside site holds particular significance in Inglewood’s history. The high school served generations of South Los Angeles families before closing, and city leaders are committed to ensuring its redevelopment honors that legacy while meeting current community needs.

Councilwoman Gloria Gray, whose district includes the Morningside area, has been actively engaging with residents about the proposal. “This is an opportunity to transform underutilized land into community assets,” she said. “I’m working to ensure any development reflects our community’s values and priorities.”

The development represents Mayor Butts’ broader vision for balanced growth that increases housing availability while maintaining Inglewood’s community character. City officials note that thoughtful housing development is essential to ensuring teachers, nurses, service workers, and other essential employees can afford to live in Inglewood.

As the October 28 hearing approaches, city staff are preparing comprehensive presentations and impact analyses to inform community discussion. Mayor Butts and Council members have committed to considering all community feedback before making final decisions.

“Responsible development requires community partnership,” Mayor Butts said. “We’re taking the time necessary to get community input and make the best decision for Inglewood’s future. That’s how good governance works.”

Residents interested in participating can attend the October 28 public hearing at City Hall, where they’ll have opportunity to ask questions, provide comments, and shape the development’s final form.