Yes, if the Council approves it: the contract is estimated to lower the home’s yearly property tax from $11,311 to $2,773. The Los Angeles County Assessor would determine the actual amount.
What the city is deciding
The City Council is asked to approve a Mills Act contract for Historic Landmark #8. The Mills Act lets the city contract with the owner of a designated historic home. The owner agrees to restore and maintain the property, and the County Assessor values it under rules that can lower its property tax.
The Council is also asked to choose whether the maintenance plan includes driveway repairs. Both options exclude garage repairs. The Historic Preservation Commission recommended the contract 4 to 0 on September 17, with the driveway work kept in.
Where and who it affects
The contract covers one home at 1511 Acacia Avenue, in the Torrance Tract Overlay and an R-1 residential zone. The home and its one-car garage were built in 1927. No other homes are included.
What it could mean for your property
Estimated yearly savings: $8,538. Savings would appear on the following year’s tax bill and may change over time.
The current maintenance plan estimates $77,400 in repairs when driveway work is included and garage repairs are excluded. Work extends through 2036. It covers roof, moisture, gutter, door and window work.
An addition built onto the garage between 1981 and 1984 lacks a permit. The homeowner must obtain a building permit or remove that addition.
The contract has a ten-year term. Another year is added annually unless the city or homeowner gives notice that it will not renew. It runs with the land, so future owners remain bound while the contract is active. The homeowner must submit annual progress reports and allow reasonable inspections by appointment.
If the city cancels the contract after an uncured breach or deterioration, the cancellation fee is one eighth of the home’s full market value as set by the County Assessor.
Questions to ask before you buy or build
- Is the home a designated landmark under a recorded Mills Act contract?
- How many years remain on the contract?
- What repairs does the contract’s maintenance plan still require?
- Are all additions on the property permitted?
What happens next
The City Council is asked to consider the contract on October 20, 2026. No vote is recorded yet. If the agreement is executed, the homeowner must record it with the Los Angeles County Recorder within 60 days.