MALIBU—Malibu residents voted against Measure W on November 3. The measure, if passed, would have allowed a new shopping center on the corner of Civic Center Way and Cross Creek Road. The result for Measure W was 57 percent (1,575) against the measure, and 43 percent (1,173) for the measure. Two-thousand-seven-hundred-forty-eight (2,748) voters out of a total of 8,934 registered voters came out to vote during Tuesday’s election.

Measure W, the Civic Center Northeast Specific Plan, pertained to a plan for a 5.88 acre shopping complex, which contained the details of the development for the site. The plan was to be developed in accordance with the Malibu Municipal Code.

Five buildings were proposed with Whole Foods Market occupying one building. The remaining four buildings would be smaller. Landscaping and parking, as well as other land use were detailed in the plan.

The residents of Malibu chose to preserve its rural characteristics passing Measure R back in 2014, which allows residents the rights to vote on large commercial and mixed-use developments. Measure R indicates that any new commercial or mixed use development over 20,000 square feet requires resident approval of the development’s specific plans.

Establishments such as hotels were exempt from this process. Limitations were imposed on formula retail businesses. Formula retail businesses are establishments with a standardized merchandise or menu, color scheme, décor, façade, layout, signage/service mark/trademark, and uniform.