A SPOTLIGHT ON SOHA
For over six decades, the Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association (SOHA) has played a critical role in protecting the quality of life in our community. Formed in 1964 by a group of dedicated residents, SOHA continues to be one of the most active and influential homeowners associations in Los Angeles. From historic tax reform and environmental protection to defeating overdevelopment and preserving local control, SOHA has helped shape Sherman Oaks into the thriving, balanced neighborhood we know today.
THE BEGINNING
A NEIGHBORHOOD UNITES
In the early 1960s, Los Angeles was growing fast—sometimes too fast. Sherman Oaks, with its family-friendly streets and suburban charm, faced the threat of dense development and unregulated sprawl. Concerned residents came together to form SOHA, united by one mission: To give homeowners a voice in decisions that directly affect their homes, their streets, and their lives.
What started as a grassroots neighborhood group quickly became a respected civic institution.
SUPPORTING PROP 13 -
A MILESTONE IN
TAXPAYER PROTECTION
In 1978, SOHA played a vital role in one of California’s most significant voter-led initiatives: Proposition 13. Faced with rising property taxes that were displacing longtime homeowners, SOHA joined other groups across the state in rallying support for the measure. Prop 13 passed with overwhelming support and: Capped property tax rates at 1% of a property's assessed value, limited annual increases in property tax assessments, and required a two-thirds vote in the legislature for future tax hikes. Thanks to Prop 13, many homeowners in Sherman Oaks—especially seniors and working families—have been able to stay in their homes despite rising market values.
DEFENDING SHERMAN OAKS AFTER THE EARTHQUAKE - DEFEATING THE CRA
After the devastating Northridge Earthquake in 1994, the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) sought to take control of rebuilding efforts in Sherman Oaks. Many residents feared the agency’s track record of aggressive urban development would change the face of our neighborhood. SOHA fought back—rallying the community, hiring legal experts, and lobbying city leaders. In a major victory, the CRA’s plans were halted, and local control was preserved. This wasn’t just about zoning—it was about protecting the soul of our community from outside interests.
STANDING UP TO OVERDEVELOPMENT
Over the years, SOHA has taken a strong stand against projects that would threaten the character of Sherman Oaks. From high-rise proposals to oversized commercial developments, we’ve consistently pushed for responsible land use that respects community scale, smart growth policies that include traffic and infrastructure planning, and public input before decisions are made. Our advocacy has helped preserve the balance between urban convenience and suburban tranquility.
PRESERVING THE SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS
AND OPEN SPACE
Sherman Oaks is fortunate to be nestled near some of Southern California’s most beautiful natural spaces. But for decades, developers have looked to build on hillsides and in ecologically sensitive areas. SOHA has worked tirelessly to protect the Santa Monica Mountains from development, support wildlife corridors and conservation, and ensure responsible hillside grading and building practices
We believe a healthy community includes access to nature—and we’ve fought to keep it that way.
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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, & INFRASTRUCTURE
We know that quality of life isn’t just about what’s built—it’s about how we get around and how the city functions.
SOHA has weighed in on countless infrastructure projects, including: freeway and surface street expansions, bike lanes and pedestrian safety upgrades, Metro’s Orange Line and Sepulveda Transit Corridor, and sewer, water, and electrical improvements. Our focus has always been ensuring that improvements benefit the residents first—not just developers or outside agencies.
MONTHLY MEETINGS - COMMUNITY IN ACTION
Every month, SOHA hosts public meetings that are open to all Sherman Oaks residents. These meetings include guest speakers like City Council members, LAPD leaders, and city planners, updates on planning and zoning issues, and Q&A sessions where residents can voice concerns and ask questions.
This is where neighbors become informed, engaged, and empowered.
COLLABORATION
FOR A STRONGER SHERMAN OAKS
SOHA works closely with other community groups, including: the Sherman Oaks Neighborhood Council, adjacent homeowners associations, and civic and environmental organizations. Through these partnerships, we’re able to speak with a stronger voice—and bring meaningful results home.