The coastal bluff at Naples on the Gaviota Coast is a stunning natural and agricultural landscape, a destination for coastal recreation, and important habitat for sensitive species. Developers have eyed this picturesque area for residential development since 1888, but to date none have succeeded.
On May 20, the County Zoning Administrator will consider a new residential development proposal on the bluff at Naples. The proposal, “DMF Fund LLC Seaside Residence Project and Habitat Restoration”, includes a single-family residence and accessory structures located South of the railroad and west of the main access road. The residence is being processed together with habitat restoration that is independently required to remedy illegal destruction of sensitive habitat that occurred in 2020.
The County is relying on a 2008 Environmental Impact Report prepared for the Santa Barbara Ranch Project, coupled with an Addendum.
We are analyzing the newly released Addendum and other Project documents (available here: https://cosantabarbara.app.box.com/s/cxomnkxzlp8wgay13pk46zv8pygaksn8/folder/261851188168), and will post again in a few days with more information about the specific issues we plan to raise to the Zoning Administrator.
The agenda will be posted soon which will also have information regarding how to participate in the hearing. Written public comment must be submitted by Friday, May 17th at 9:00 A.M. Emailed letters can be sent to the recording secretary, Jonathan Martin (martinj@countyofsb.org) and the Planner, Chris Schmuckal (cschmuckal@countyofsb.org). Physical letters can be mailed to Planning and Development Staff, Attn: Hearing Support, 123 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.
Thank you for being so dedicated to the Gaviota Coast!