Which Way, L.A.?

Mansionization and LA Urban Sprawl

Instead of moving out to the country, southland homeowners are building out to the property line. Today, the LA City Council passed its first ordinance to prohibit what's called "mansionization." In Sunland-Tujunga, the San Fernando Valley neighborhood just below the Angeles National Forest, homes on 4,000 square-foot lots will be limited to just 40 percent of the property, like the bungalows and ranch-style houses that have defined the Valley since the 1950's. All over Southern California, some residents want their neighborhoods to be next, while builders, developers and new-home buyers are worried about a violation of property rights. We talk with homeowners, builders and planners about outdoor space, indoor space, property rights and property taxes in the latest clash of cultural values. Reporter's Notebook: On Villaraigosa LA's new Mayor has been on the covers of national magazines and he's introduced himself on Capitol Hill. He's the poster child for Latino empowerment in American politics. Luis Sierra, who's lived in East Los Angeles all his life, tells Youth Radio LA what Antonio Villaraigosa means to one 22 year-old Latino.