The De Anza Cove Mobile Home Park was erected on approximately 70 acres of city-owned property in Mission Bay just west of Interstate 5.
The establishment of a permanent resident mobile-home park on city land prompted a legal battle that spans several decades.
Here's a brief review of the dispute:
1940s: California leased the property to San Diego as part of Mission Bay Park.
1950s: City leased the land allowing the area to be used by visitors for “travel trailer” purposes.
Late 1970s: City officials questioned whether it was legal to have permanent residents in Mission Bay Park. State officials responded by saying the city should phase them out. At the same time, the state passed a law ensuring people could live there until the 50-year lease expired in 2003.
1980s: Residents signed an additional lease that would provide relocation fees if the land was developed into a hotel.
November 2003 – At the same time the state tidelands lease runs out, residents file a class-action lawsuit against the city. City leaders have said they want to turn the property into a public park.
December 2003 – Residents win a court injunction to stay in their homes during litigation with the city. Those legal matters were expected to last up to 18 months at the time.
Politics
October 2004 – The homeowners association files a motion to declare the city in violation of state law requiring the city to evaluate the local housing market for replacement housing.
June 2005 – Residents complain of harassment by security officers hired by the City of San Diego to protect the property.
March 2008 – A tentative ruling was issued, rejecting the residents’ request for $48 million in moving fees. City Attorney Mike Aguirre called the ruling a victory for the taxpayers.
May 6, 2014 – A retired judge issues a tentative ruling that recommends owners receive 48 months of rent differential and temporary lodging fees from the city. Non-owners would receive comparable two months’ rent and moving fees. The ruling also recommends all fees would be given in a lump sum.
