Planning Commission OKs Jewish School

County planning commissioners Wednesday approved a controversial Orthodox Jewish school near Calabasas.

On a 2-1 vote with one abstention, commissioners allowed construction of the Mesivta of Greater Los Angeles school on Mureau Road, which will have up to 130 students when complete.

Neighbors in nearby Mountain View Estates had complained that the school would cause environmental damage and traffic and drainage problems. They have filed a lawsuit to block the school from operating.

However, commissioners said school officials had worked with county planners to address many of the concerns. The school has reduced the number of oak trees to be removed from 24 to seven and moved buildings to reduce the effect on the view from the road.