Corona-Norco Unified School District v. City of Corona

In these companion cases, consolidated for appeal, the Corona-Norco Unified School District (District) sought writs of mandate to compel the City of Corona and its city council (collectively, City) to rescind approvals of tentative tract maps for two residential development projects. The District contended the tentative tract maps were inconsistent with the City’s general plan and violated the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Public Resources Code section 21000 et seq. The trial court sustained general demurrers to the petitions without leave to amend. On appeal, the District contends the petitions should have survived demurrer because the projects were inconsistent with the City’s general plan, and the City’s environmental review of the proposed projects was inadequate.

Factual and Procedural Background

The Parties. The District is the public school district responsible for providing public education and school facilities in Corona and adjacent areas.

The City of Corona is the local government entity charged with the planning and zoning of residential, commercial, and industrial development in Corona. The city council is the legislative body of the City of…