Mass emails about the future of More Mesa — the sprawling, undeveloped bluffs near Hope Ranch — prompted many environmentalists to show up to the County Administration Building to advocate Tuesday for stronger protections in the coastal area. They expressed support for the Eastern Goleta Valley Community Plan, now certified and bolstered by the mighty California Coastal Commission.
“It’s time to move it forward over the final hurdle,” said County Supervisor Janet Wolf, who represents the area. “This document that is now before us is pretty close to perfect.” The county supervisors, in a split vote, approved the community plan, a project that began 10 years ago. The Coastal Commission added 13 recommendations, including measures to increase buffers for environmentally sensitive habitats, protections for critters and creeks, and stronger development restrictions.
A few attorneys representing oceanfront residents showed up to allege the new rules make it all but impossible for their clients to repair existing stairways, of which there are about 20 in the coastal zone. Most are unpermitted. Attorney Steve Wiley called for the county supervisors to clarify the language. “We’re not trying to change your zoning ordinance,” he said. “What we’re trying to have is a policy that acknowledges routine repair and maintenance.” (Planning Assistant Director Dianne Black said county policies to rebuild existing structures would remain in place.)