July 8, 2025 City Hall Update:
Oak Creek Grill Closed, Ballot Measure Promised
At the Irvine City Council meeting on July 7, a small but engaged group of residents spoke during public comment to raise concerns about the future of Oak Creek Golf Course. During the meeting, one speaker shared a critical update that caught many by surprise:
“The Grill at Oak Creek has already been closed by the Irvine Company.”
This quiet closure has raised alarm across the community. While no formal redevelopment plans have been approved, the closure of the Grill is widely seen as an early move toward dismantling Oak Creek — one of Irvine’s largest and most visible green spaces.
Growing Pressure from the Community
Although attendance on July 7 was modest, public concern has been rising. In response to community questions, Irvine’s City Manager publicly committed to drafting a proposed ballot measure — one that would give voters the power to decide the future of Oak Creek and other open space areas.
The City Manager confirmed the draft measure will be presented at the July 22 City Council meeting.
Importantly, this momentum was fueled by a very strong turnout at the June 24 Council meeting, where many more Irvine residents came forward to speak out. Voices from across the city — Turtle Rock, Portola Springs, Orchard Hills, and Woodbridge — sent a clear message:
Our open space is not for sale.
Looking Ahead: July 22 Is Critical
Next Key Council Meeting
Monday, July 22, 2025
Irvine City Hall – 1 Civic Center Plaza
What’s at Stake
The Grill closure wasn’t announced to the public — it was discovered and shared by residents. That lack of transparency is exactly why a voter-approved, enforceable measure is so important.
This isn’t just about Oak Creek. Once a precedent is set, any green space in Irvine could be reconsidered for development — no matter what residents were promised.
Take Action Now
Attend the July 22 meeting and support a public vote
Spread the word in your community
Donate or volunteer to support outreach efforts
Hold Irvine leaders accountable
Protect what makes Irvine livable. Let voters decide the future of our open space.