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MEASURE "A"

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CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION


UPDATES
Click here to read
WHAT'S NEWEST with Measure "A" (November 2000)

8-29-07 - Calif. Coastal Commission has agreed to extend (or "toll") the deadline for 90 days, from Monday, August 13, 2007 to Tuesday November 13, 2007, for Monterey County and the Pebble Beach Co. to file suit challenging the Commission's June 13, 2007 action to deny the proposed amendment to the Local Coastal Program (MCO-1-07 Measure "A" 2000). This proposed amendment would allow major zoning and policy changes in the Del Monte Forest Land Use Plan to permit further expansion of commercial development in Del Monte Forest.


7-2-07 - Concerned Residents thank the Coastal Comissioners for preserving Del Monte Forest.

See the Letter written to Comissioner Patrick Kruer expressing gratitude for the decision to deny Pebble Beach Co.'s Measure "A" Initiative.


6-14-07 - Coastal Commissioners VOTED to DENY PEBBLE BEACH Co's MEASURE "A" INITIATIVE which saved the Del Monte Forest. The Commissioners unanimously denied certifying proposed major changes in land use policies and zoning for the Del Monte Forest Local Coastal Program at the public hearing in Santa Rosa on Wednesday, June 13, 2007.

After David Potter's motion to approve Measure A had failed 8 - 4, the commission then voted unanimously to deny certifying the ballot measure.

6-02-07 - The Monterey Herald reports the Coastal Commission staff recommends denial of Measure A, the Pebble Beach development initiative in 2000.

6-01-07 - The California Coastal Commission staff has recommended denial of the Pebble Beach Co.'s proposed redevelopment plan (Measure A) due to inconsistencies with state Coastal Act policies. 

5-23-07 - The Coastal Commission hearing on Measure "A" is set for June 13, 2007 in Santa Rosa. Let the Coastal Commissioners know you views on Pebble Beach Company's development plans. Send your comments to the Commissioners by Friday, June 8, 2007.

5-18-07 - PEBBLE BEACH PROJECT HEADS BACK TO COASTAL COMMISSION: One year after the Pebble Beach Company withdrew its application for a new golf course, equestrian center and 160 hotel rooms in Del Monte Forest, the California Coastal Commission is expected to revisit the ballot measure that cleared the way for the development and put hundreds of acres of Monterey pine forest into open space preserves when voters approved it in November 2000.


4-23-07 - At their April 11th public meeting in Santa Barbara, the Coastal Commissioners directed their staff to place the P.B. Co.'s MEASURE "A" INITIATIVE on the Agenda for their June 13-15, 2007 public meeting in Santa Rosa. This changes the last report wherein the staff indicated this major AMENDMENT to the Del Monte Forest Land Use Plan (with Policy and Zoning changes) would NOT be on the Commission's agenda until May, 2008.

The CCC staff has advised that more information on this important item will be provided in a few weeks.

3-29-07 - Coastal Commission to vote on extending TIME LIMIT for one year to MAY 22, 2008 for Commission ACTION on Pebble Beach Co.'s Measure A" Initiative, Major Zoning and Policy changes in Del Monte Forest Land Use Plan - Amendment No 1-07. See Commission Notice and Memorandum for the April 11, 2007 public hearing in Santa Barbara.

PEBBLE BEACH
Coastal Commission to weigh time limit on Measure A amendments

A request by Monterey County to extend the time limit for action on Measure A amendments for its Local Coastal Program for Pebble Beach will be heard by the state Coastal Commission when it meets April 11 in Santa Barbara.

The commission will convene at 9 a.m. at Fess Parker's Doubletree Resort, 633 E. Cabrillo Blvd., Santa Barbara.

The amendments call for land-use modifications and zoning designations for 24 areas encompassing approximately 600 acres of mostly undeveloped land in Del Monte Forest.

The commission will only consider the time extension request.

  • Also find this reference on the Coastal Commission website http://www.coastal.ca.gov/mtgcurr.html "Monterey Co. LCP Amendment No. 1-07 (Measure A in Del Monte Forest). Time Extension Only. Public hearing and action on extension of time limit to act on request by Monterey County to modify its LCP land use and implementation plans within Del Monte Forest LCP segment as directed by Measure A initiative, including modifying land use and zoning designations for two dozen distinct areas encompassing over 600 mostly undeveloped acres owned by Pebble Beach Company, and eliminating visitor-serving unit caps at Spanish Bay Inn and Pebble Beach Lodge in order to facilitate and help implement Pebble Beach Company’s development and preservation plans for its remaining holdings in the Forest. (DC-SC)"

3-24-07 - According to Charles Lester, Coastal Commission Deputy Director, Commission Public Hearings should be held in June, July, or August on PEBBLE BEACH CO.'s MEASURE "A" Initiative. This voter-approved Amendment to the Local Coastal Program includes major policy and ZONING CHANGES in the Del Monte Forest. The Commission Staff has not changed its position that Measure "A" zoning would be at odds with the Coastal Act.

  • To learn more CLICK here to read the Monterey County Herald's March 23 story, "Del Monte Forest Plan back on table" on their website, www.montereyherald.com (external link).
2-26-07 - Roster of California Coastal Commissioners has recently changed. On February 13th the Governor replaced Meg Caldwell with Steve Gary Blank,who is on the faculty of the University of California, Berkeley, Hass School of Business. On June 1, 2006 Khatchik Achadjian was selected as the South Central Coast Representative to replace Dan Secord, M.D. from Santa Barbara.
  • For the full roster and information about the new Commissioners go to www.coastal.ca.gov/roster.html. The next Commission public meeting in Monterey will be March 14-15, 2007. Their agenda does not include expected proposed new Pebble Beach Company applications; however there will be time for short comments from individuals on subjects not on the agenda.

01-23-07 - On January 23, 2007 the County Supervisors directed their staff to RE-INITIATE the process of obtaining COASTAL COMMISSION CERTIFICATION of P.B. Co.'s MEASURE"A" INITIATIVE, a Local Coastal Program (LCP) amendment, including their Resolution No. 07-024, to the California Coastal Commission for commission consideration.

1-18-07 - Pebble Beach Co. has not abandoned its pursuit of developing property in Del Monte Forest. Recent correspondence from the Coastal Commission staff indicates the Company continues to pursue their FOREST PRESERVATION and DEVELOPMENT PLAN (PDP) PROJECTS at the COUNTY level.

For more information on Pebble Beach Co.'s plans,

12-15-06 - Coastal Commissioners reject Staff's recommendation and approved Cal Am Water Co's proposed pilot Desal Plant at Moss Landing. The Water Co's request to increase water rates was approved by the state Public Utilities Commission on Thursday, December 14th.

12-14-06 - Coastal Commissioners approved Pebble Beach Co's plan to build a seawall below the 5th green on P. B. Golf Links. The 160-foot seawall will head off erosion of the bank at the shoreline in the area.

  • For more details CLICK here for the Monterey County Herald's December 8, 2006 story, "Coast panel OKs Pebble seawall" on their web site, www.montereyherald.com (external link).

  • CLICK here for the Carmel Pine Cone's December8, 2006 story, "Seawall to save 5th Hole at Pebble" on their web site, www.carmelpinecone.com (external link).

12-11-06 - The Coastal Commission staff recommends approval of the PEBBLE BEACH CO's proposed SEAWALL along the coastal bluff below the Fifth Hole of the PB Co. Golf Links Course. Commissioners will review the application Wednesday, December 13th at their public hearing meeting in San Francisco.

The Surfrider Foundation opposes the seawall claiming that it willl eventually destroy the public beach in the area. The Foundation will consider legal action if the seawall is approved by the Commission.

  • For more information CLICK here for the Monterey County Herald's December 11, 2006 story, "Seawall plan has support" on their web site, www.montereyherald.com (an external link).

12-8-06 - Coastal Commission staff rejects the Cal Am Water Co's proposed experimental pilot desalination plant at Moss Landing. Commissioners will make a decision at their public hearing in San Francisco next week.

12-06-06 - As reported earlier on this website, on December 5th County Supervisors rescinded their earlier approval of Pebble Beach Co.'s major commercial expansion plans in Del Monte Forest that included another new golf course, new Equestrian Center, additional hotel rooms, conference rooms, underground parking garages, new golf cottages and 30 new lots.

During the public hearing, Charles McKee, County Counsel, said they expect to submit PB Co.'s Measure "A" Imitative to the Coastal Commission again at the Commission's public hearing in March, 2007 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Monterey. A revised PB Co. commercial expansion plan application is expected to be submitted to the Supervisors at a later date.

12-06-06 - The California Coastal Commission District Manager, Steve Monowitz, sent the County Supervisors a Dec. 4th letter which provided important information for the Supervisor's concerning any future PB Co. development plans. The letter makes it very clear that the proposed Measure A Local Coastal Plan amendment is INCONSISTENT with the Coastal Act and refers to their June 14, 2006 recommendation to the Commissioners to DENY this proposed amendment. The letter also indicates they believe that there are significant opportunities for potential new visitor-serving redevelopment in the Forest that can be accomplished without adversely impacting sensitive coastal resources.

11-28-06 - PEBBLE BEACH COMPANY DEVELOPMENT PLANS (2001 Applications) to be on County Board of Supervisors December 5th agenda. The PB Co. and the County Planner for this project, Carl Holm, will ask the Supervisors to rescind their final approval of Coastal Development Permit, 2001 Applications for their Del Monte Forest development plans. The PB Co. will then ask the Coastal Commissioners to review their Measure “A” Initiative (rezoning of Del Monte Forest.) Later they will resubmit modified development plans to the County.

Details of the PB Co.’s modified plans for Del Monte forest will be published later. The changes will include a new location for the proposed new Equestrian Center and changes in the proposed Golf Academy and driving range along Congress Road near the Spanish Bay Resort.

  • For more information CLICK here to read the Monterey County Herald's November 28, 2006 story, "Pebble Beach Co. tries new strategy" on their web site, www.montereyherald.com (an external link).

10-29-06 - Letter to Herald's Editor - "Protect Native Species" from Mark Massara, Sierra Club, provides important facts concerning Alan Williams' comments in the Herald's Oct. 23rd story about the survivability of Yadon Piperia orchids. Williams indicated Pebble Beach Co. is working with Monterey County on a revised plan for their Major Commercial Development plans in the Del Monte Forest.

Mark Massara's letter states... "Until it <P.B. Co.> refrains from destroying the last coastal native Monterey Pine forests and all the wild life in them, neither the California public nor the Coastal Commission will want anything to do with it <the new development plan.>"

  • To read the whole letter CLICK here for the Herald's October 29, 2006 LETTERS, "Protect Native Species" (on this website ).

10-20-06 - Sierra Club proposes a public forum in Pebble Beach wherein the public and the California Coastal Commission can offer suggestions and guidelines for the inevitable future development of Del Monte Forest.

The Concerned Residents throughout Monterey County are urged to write to the Commission about the future of Del Monte Forest. Address your concerns to:

Meg Caldwell, Chair
California Coastal Commission
Stanford Law School
559 Nathan Abbott Way
Owen House Room 6
Stanford, CA 94305-8610

The Sierra Club has provided proposed wording that urges Ms. Caldwell to host a workshop or public forum in which the public and the Commission can offer suggestions for the future development of Del Monte Forest.

10-23-06 - Pebble Beach Co. now working with Monterey County to RESUBMIT a format (for new development projects in Del Monte Forest) that will be more consistent with Coastal Commission standards, per Alan Williams. The U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to designate more than 2,300 acres (including areas in P.B. Co. property) as critical habitat because of existing Yadon Piperia. This native plant was designated as an endangered species six years ago. It is a wild orchid plant with small white flowers on a slender stalk.

Public comment on the proposed listing of critical habitat for the Yadon Piperia will be accepted until December 18. Send your comments to: Field Supervisor, Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office, 2493 Portola Road, Suite B, Ventura, CA 93003.

 

8-11-06 - COUNTY's LATEST UPDATE OF THE GENERAL PLAN now available. The Planning Commission will begin a series of Public Hearings on August 16th at 1:00 PM in Salinas. The Coastal Commission District Planner, Rick Hyman, sent the County Planning Director, Mike Novo, a letter on July 25th providing comments on the policies included in the recent updated General Plan.

MEASURE "A" WITHDRAWN BY MONTEREY COUNTY SUPERVISORS FROM COASTAL COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING THAT WAS SCHEDULED FOR WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14 AT THE FOUNTAINGROVE INN IN SANTA ROSA

6-14-06 - Monterey County Supervisors, by a 4-0 urgency vote without public notice on Tuesday morning, requested Measure "A" to be removed from today's Coastal Commission agenda. Supervisor Dave Potter in a letter to the commission which stated there was too much confusion about what was before the Coastal Commission, that Measure A was being confused with the project itself. P.B. Co. attorney Tony Lombardo agreed with county officials, adding that the coastal staff report would have made it impossible to get a "fair hearing." Commission Executive Director Peter Douglas commented on the delay by saying, "I have my suspicions, but the reality is there is no confusion about what is before the commission..." Douglas indicated the commissioners cannot take action but will meet and probably discuss the implcations of the delay. Public comments can be expected at the hearing regarding this matter.

7-19-06 - Monterey County Supervisors, Pebble Beach Co. and also the Herald reporters continue to provide the public with confusing stories about MEASURE "A", the P.B. Co. Initiative that voters approved in Nov. 2000. Measure "A" does NOT cover an application for a development plan in Del Monte Forest. However, Measure "A" DOES make MAJOR CHANGES IN ZONING AND LAND USE POLICIES for the LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM (Del Monte Forest Land Use Plan.)

The Supervisors did NOT pull P.B. Co.'s plans from the Coastal Commissioners June 14th agenda" as reported in the Herald today. Only Measure "A" was withdrawn from the agenda by a last-minute request of the Supervisors. The P. B. Co. appears to have requested the Supervisors to withdraw Measure "A" as they felt the Commissioners would not approve it.

Concerned Residents of Pebble Beach and Monterey County believes the only way the Measure "A" major ZONING and POLICIES amendments can be changed is by going back to the voters and obtaining approval of new changes with another ballot measure.

  • For more details CLICK here for the Monterey County Herald's July 19, 2006 story, "County reaffirms meeting action" on their web site, www.montereyherald.com (an external link).

7-11-06 - David Dillworth, Exec. Director of the Helping Our Peninsula's Environment (HOPE) sent a formal e-mail request and complaint to Monterey County Supervisors concerning their action of withdrawing Measure "A" (P.B. Co.'s LCP zoning changes) from the June 14th Coastal Commission agenda.

6-17-06 - Two more well-written letters to the Herald's Editor today. "Measure A affront" by Carl E. Nielsen (Co-Chair of Concerned Residents of Pebble Beach and Monterey County) and "Expect a media blitz" by Phillips Wylly. They cover Pebble Beach Company's and Monterey County Supervisors' last-minute action to withdraw the Measure "A" Initiative from the scheduled public hearing by the Coastal Commissioners.

6-16-06 - At the Coastal Commission public hearing in Santa Rosa on June 14, Peter Douglas, Commission Executive Director said the Commission's Staff has spent thousands of hours preparing the P. B. Co.'s Measure "A" Staff Report. He estimated the County withdrawing the item from today's public hearing agenda cost $10,000 to $12,000. A representative from Concerned Residents of Pebble Beach reiterated Douglas' comments and added, "This is one more example of the Board of Supervisors making decisions at the expense of the taxpayers."

6-15-06 - Monterey County Supervisors action to cancel their request for a Coastal Commission public hearing and decision on the P. B. Co.'s Measure "A" Initiative is questioned by many. This only cancels action on the proposed major zoning and policy changes in the Forest Land Use Plan covered in Measure "A". The P. B. Co.'s proposed development projects will take separate action later by the Commissioners and cannot be considered until Amendments are made to the LUP.

The headline in the Herald's new story refers to "Project hearing canceled" and their story quotes representatives of the developer, P. B. Co., which imply they want to change the Measure "A" Initiative that was approved by the voters in November 2000. The cancelled Hearing was on an Amendment to the Forest Land Use Plan, NOT on P. B. Co.'s projects. County Supervisor, Dave Potter, was challenged during the "Public Comment" period at the Coastal Commission hearing in Santa Rosa on June 14th. Those attending wanted to now why the Supervisors' action was not covered in their agenda with advance notice to the public. After the hearing, Mr. Potter said, "There needs to be some clarity, given what Measure "A" has done... etc." During the public hearing Mark Masarra, attorney for the Sierra Club, made it very clear that there is no confusion in the wording of Measure "A".

  • CLICK here to read the June15, 2006 Monterey County Herald story, "P. B. project hearing canceled" on their web site, www.montereyherald.com (external link).

6-15-06 - "It is clear where Supervisor Potter stands... with the money people" is a line in another Letter to the Editor in the Herald today. Joseph Cicero's letter is worth reading.

6-13-06 - County sends an undated FAX to California Coastal Commission requesting Measure "A", a LCP amendment, be withdrawn from the June 14, 2006 Public Hearing agenda.

MEASURE "A" WITHDRAWN FROM THE
COASTAL COMMISSION JUNE 14, 2006 PUBLIC HEARING

June 13, 2006: MONTEREY COUNTY SUPERVISORS' ACTION during their board meeting this morning voted to withdraw "Amendment No. MCO-1-05 to the Monterey County Local Coastal Program/Land Use Plan for the Del Monte Forest."

Dan Carl of the Coastal Commission staff reported the LCP will not be considered by the Coastal Commission at this public hearing tomorrow, Wednesday, June 14, 2006 in Santa Rosa.

theKSBWchannel.com
POSTED: 12:09 pm PDT June 13, 2006
UPDATED: 12:15 pm PDT June 13, 2006

Pebble Beach Golf Course Proposal Withdrawn
Coastal Commission Was To Vote On Plan Wednesday

SAN FRANCISCO -- The developer of a high-profile Pebble Beach golf project backed by actor Clint Eastwood withdrew its proposal Tuesday, a day before a state agency was scheduled to vote on the plan.

The California Coastal Commission had been set to vote Wednesday on plans submitted by Pebble Beach Co. for an 18-hole golf course, a driving range, an equestrian center, 160 new hotel rooms, a conference center and underground parking.

But the Monterey County Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to officially withdraw the proposal after the company said it wanted to revise the plan to address environmental concerns raised by the Coastal Commission.

Coastal Commission biologists said in a report earlier this month that a proposed golf course would destroy rare pine trees and hurt an endangered orchid species in the Del Monte Forest.

Monterey County Herald
Posted on Tuesday, June 13, 2006


County withdraws Del Monte Forest plan

The Board of Supervisors today asked the state Coastal Commission to withdraw the Del Monte Forest plan from the commission agenda Wednesday.

In a stunning move that follows years of controversy following the passage of Measure A by voters in Monterey County in 2000, supervisors agreed to send a letter to the Coastal Commission seeking a withdrawal of the proposal.

"The county believes it will be valuable to revisit the language in Measure A to determine if there is a course of action for commissioners to consider other than the 'all or nothing' recommendation proposed by the commisison staff," according to the letter.

The commission is scheduled to consider the plan and Measure A on Wednesday. The proposal would call for a new golf course, a driving range, 160 new hotel units, 36 home lots and a relocated equestrian center. It would also place hundreds of acres in Pebble Beach in permanent conservation easement.

The staff for the commission has recommended denial of the project.

The withdrawal was supported by the owners of Pebble Beach Co., according to Anthony Lombardo, an attorney for the company, who said the commission staff did not fairly analyze the mitigations proposed by the county and the company.

For more, see Wednesday's edition of The Herald

June 11, 2006 - The very important CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSIONER'S PUBLIC HEARING on P.B. Co.'s MEASURE "A" INITIATIVE will be WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14 , at the Fountaingrove Inn in Santa Rosa.

We urge you to attend the hearing and tell the Commissioners to VOTE NO on Measure "A" (Amendment No. 1-05 to the Monterey County Local Coastal Program/Del Monte Forest Land Use Plan. This proposed Amendment would permit excessive commercial development in the Forest and does not comply with the California Coastal Act.

CLICK here to read many statements and letters to the Commissioners explaining why Measure "A" should not be approved.

CLICK here to read letters to the newspaper Editor with opinions on Pebble Beach Co. project developments.

CLICK here to read letters from our organization to the Coastal Commission about P.B. Co.'s Measure "A" Initiative

To keep up-to-date on the future of Del Monte Forest and our organization's action plans/meetings, please send us your name and address for future mailings.

Our address: CR-PB & Mty Co., PO Box 1229, Pebble Beach, CA 93953. Email us at info@cr-pb.org.

Click HERE to create your email to info@cr-pb.org with an AUTO-PREPARED form.

Coastal Commission staff recommends DENIAL of Monterey County LCP Amendment 1-05 (Measure "A" in Del Monte Forest.) The Staff Report "W9a" dated June 2, 2006 for presentation at the Commissioner's public hearing on June 14th at the Fountaingrove Inn in Santa Rosa is now available.

Click HERE for the Public Hearing Notice for the CCC meeting on June 14, 2006

Click HERE to read the 3 page SYNOPSIS, part of June 2nd Staff Report/Recommendation
(on this website)

Click HERE to download the Staff Report/Recommendations on the proposed Monterey County LCP Amendment No. MCO-1-05 (Measure A in the Del Monte Forest). This is the entire 175 page Staff Report (PDF 1.3 MB) from the Coastal Commission website (external link)


Pebble Beach Co.'s Measure "A" Initiative
An Amendment to the Monterey County Local Coastal Program/Land Use Plan for the Del Monte Forest.

Click HERE to read the full, complete text of the Measure "A" 'Initiative with proposed major changes in ZONING AND POLICIES for the Del Monte Forest LCP/LUP

Pebble Beach Co.'s pending Applications for Major commercial construction projects in Del Monte Forest

• Spanish Bay Resort • Lodge at Pebble Beach
• New Equestrian Center • New Golf Course • New Driving Range

Click HERE for a Summary and Full Description of each P.B. Co. pending Application

MEASURE "A" WITHDRAWN BY MONTEREY COUNTY SUPERVISORS FROM COASTAL COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING THAT WAS SCHEDULED FOR WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14 AT THE FOUNTAINGROVE INN IN SANTA ROSA

6-14-06 - Monterey County Supervisors, by a 4-0 urgency vote--without public notice--on Tuesday morning, requested Measure "A" to be removed from today's Coastal Commission agenda. Supervisor Dave Potter in a letter to the commission which stated there was too much confusion about what was before the Coastal Commission, that Measure A was being confused with the project itself. P.B. Co. attorney Tony Lombardo agreed with county officials, adding that the coastal staff report would have made it impossible to get a" fair hearing." Commission Executive Director Peter Douglas commented on the delay by saying, "I have my suspicions, but the reality is there is no confusion about what is before the commission..." Douglas indicated the commissioners cannot take action but will meet and probably discuss the implications of the delay. Public comments can be expected at the hearing regarding this matter.

6-14-06 - Comments by Commission Staff and Carl Nielsenhave been transcribed from the tape recording of the June 14, 2006 Coastal Commission Public Hearing in Santa Rosa

6-13-06 - MEASURE "A" WITHDRAWN FROM COASTAL COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING. MONTEREY COUNTY SUPERVISORS' ACTION during their board meeting this morning voted to withdraw "Amendment No. MCO-1-05 to the Monterey County Local Coastal Program/Land Use Plan for the Del Monte Forest."

Dan Carl of the Coastal Commission staff reported the LCP will not be considered by the Coastal Commission at this public hearing tomorrow, Wednesday, June 14, 2006 in Santa Rosa.

6-13-06 - The Monterey County Herald recommends, "The plan should be denied."
  • CLICK here to read the Editorial in the June13, 2006 Monterey County Herald, "Del Monte plan should be denied" on their web site, www.montereyherald.com (external link).

6-12-06 - New article in Los Angles Times restates, "… the Pebble Beach Co. has no legal entitlement to subdivide Monterey pine forest."

6-11-06 - Today's Herald newspaper story covers the showdown vote to be made on Wednesday, June 14th in Santa Rosa by state Coastal Commissioners on P. B. Co.'s Measure "A" Initiative, Amendment No. 1-05 to the County Local Coastal Program/Del Monte Forest LUP - which changes Zoning and Policies required to allow the Company's development plans.

Tom Lippe, attorney for the Sierra Club is quoted.."Given the (Commission's staff report, any deviation from it would be political." Alan Williams for P. B. Co says the staff report disregards county voter support. (NOTE: voters thought they voted to protect the Forest, not an excessive commercial expansion in many areas of the Forest.) Allowing the zoning and policies changes would "set an extremely adverse precedent" for hundreds of conservation areas in the coastal zone per the staff report.

Mark Massara of the Sierra Club is concerned about State Speaker for the Assembly, Fabian Nunez, abruptly appointing new Alternate Commissioners that could put a new pro-development alternate on the Commission panel for Wednesday's public hearing.

  • CLICK here to read the Monterey Herald's June 11, 2006 story, "P. B. plan hits tipping point" on their web site, www.montereyherald.com (an external link).

6-09-06 - PB Co's attorney wrote to the Coastal Commission Chairperson on May 12th about "Mapping Errors" and zoning for the Upper and Lower Sawmill Gulch area where Scenic and Conservation easements were required as a condition for the Spanish Bay development in the mid 1980s.

This letter is part of "Exhibit 10" to the June 2nd Coastal Commission Staff Report/Recommendation to DENY approval of Measure "A".

Carl Nielsen, co-chair of the Concerned Residents of Pebble Beach and Monterey County, also wrote to the Commission Chairperson explaining how "creative editing' has been used by the P. B. Co. attorney, Anthony Lombardo, trying to prove his point about allowing a commercial equestrian center on the Sawmill Gulch sites. Mr. Nielsen urges the Commissioners to uphold the existing easements and the "Open Space Forest' zoning on these sites and to find Measure "A" inconsistent with the Coastal Act.

CLICK here to read P. B. Co.'s attorney's Tony Lombardo's 4-page letter about "mapping errors" to the Coastal Commission; and read Mr. Nielsen's letter in response to the Commission (on this website ).


6-09-06 - Pebble Beach Co. presents Development Project "Alternatives" to the Coastal Commission. The June 2nd Commission's Staff Report/Recommendation, provides the public with a copy of a May 26th letter from the PB Co's attorney to the Exec. Director of the Commission proposing changes in their development plans. These changes should not be considered at the June 14th public hearing which is only about Measure "A", a proposed Amendment No. 1-05 with major Zoning and Policy changes to the Monterey County Local Coastal Program/Del Monte Forest LUP.

Our organization and many others will urge the Comissioners to vote NO on P. B. Co.'s Measure "A" Initiative (Amendment No. 1-05 to the LCP/LUP) at the public hearing on June 14th in Santa Rosa. The proposed major changes in Zoning and Policies covered in Measure "A" for the future development of the Del Monte Forest will have an adverse impact on the environment in the Forest and quality of life for the residential community.

One of the proposed "Alternatives" covered in P. B. Co.'s attorney's letter of May 26th is "The Relocation of the Proposed Equestrian Center from the Sawmill Gulch Quarry to the P. B. Co. Corporation Yard." This Alternative plus other late changes propsed in the letter by P. B. Co. should be covered in a completely new permit application to the County and later to the Coastal Commission.


6-09-06 - Today's Carmel Pine Cone newspaper provides facts about the PB Co's Measure "A" Initiative and the Coastal Commission's Staff recommendation to vote against the proposed major changes in Zoning and Policies for future development of the Del Monte Forest. It also includes information about a May 26th letter the PB Co's attorney sent to the Coastal Commission Exec. Director, Peter Douglas, outlining proposed "Alternatives" in their proposed development projects, including another site proposed for the new equestrian center.

This news story mentions the Company's proposal to move the planned equestrian center from the Sawmill Gulch site to the Company's Corporation Yard area at Sunridge and Lopez Roads. However, it does not mention several other late changes proposed by the Company in an effort to obtain approval of their Measure "A".

The Coastal Commission's public hearing in Santa Rosa on June 14th is ONLY about Measure "A". Any proposed changes in the Company's development plans must be covered in a completely new permit application to the County and later to the Coastal Commission.

The Pine Cone story quotes Alan Williams, president of the Carmel Development Co., planner for the P. B. Co.'s proposed commercial expansion plans as saying, "About the only people we have against us is the Sierra Club and the Coastal Commission staff. Mr. Williams seems to have forgotten that twenty two individuals and organizations, including Concerned Residents of Pebble Beach and Monterey County, sent the Commission appeals of the County's decision on Measure"A".


6-07-09 - Governor appoints a new COMMISSIONER to the COASTAL COMMISSION. KHATCHIK ACHADJIAN has been appointed to replace Dr. Dan Secord as the South Central Coast Representative. Contact him today. Urge him to vote No on the proposed Pebble Beach Co. major Amendment to the Monterey County Local Coastal Program/Del Monte Forest LUP (Measure "A") at the June 14th public hearing in Santa Rosa. His address: 1055 Monterey St. Room D-430, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408. Ph: 805-781-4337.


6-03-06 - Coastal Commission staff recommends DENIAL of Monterey County LCP Amendment 1-05 (Measure "A" in Del Monte Forest.) The Staff Report "W9a" dated June 2, 2006 for presentation at the Commissioner's public hearing on June 14th at the Fountain Grove Inn in Santa Rosa is now available.

Click HERE to read the 3 page SYNOPSIS, part of June 2nd Staff Report/Recommendation
(on this website)

Click HERE to download the Staff Report/Recommendations on the proposed Monterey County LCP Amendment No. MCO-1-05 (Measure A in the Del Monte Forest). This is the entire 175 page Staff Report (PDF 1.3 MB) from the Coastal Commission website (external link)


6-03-06 - New letters to Coastal Commissioners with reasons why they should vote NO to P.B. Co's Measure "A" Initiative and expansion of commercial development projects in Del Monte Forest.

5-29-06 - "Corporate Greed" is the heading on a new letter to the Editor in today's Herald. More letters are expected as the California Coastal Commission's public hearing on Pebble Beach Co's Initiative, Measure "A" is scheduled in Santa Rosa for June 14th. It's not too late to send your opinion to the Commissioners about the proposed major expansion of commercial developments in Del Monte Forest.
  • CLICK here to read the "Corporate Greed" letter to the Editor (on this website.)

3-26-06 - Letters to the Editor and newspaper articles about the P.B. Co.'s MEASURE "A" INITIATIVE continue to be published. The Sacramento Bee published a story about the Coastal Commission Public Hearing earlier this month. The writer, Herbert. A. Sample, refers to the P.B. Co.'s "Project" throughout his story. Measure "A" is not about a "Project." It covers major changes in Zoning and Policies in the Del Monte Forest Local Coastal Plan/Land Use Plan to allow excessive commercial development projects later.


3-20-06 - Today's' L.A. Times news story includes some interesting quotes. From Charles Lester, Coastal Commission Deputy Director, "Once something is identified as environmentally sensitive habitat, you just aren't allowed to develop it." From Alan Williams for P.B. Co., "It [the P.B. Co.] might be wiling to relocate the equestrian center to a less sensitive spot, for instance. But the golf course and guest suites will be harder to give up."

Another quote in the story: From Mark Massara, an attorney for the Sierra Club, "The idea they can cut down 18,000 trees and do all this development in the forest s a flight of fancy. That discussion is over."


3-17-06 - Sara Christie, a legislation coordinator with the California Coastal Commission is quoted in a recent issue of the Silicon Valley/San Jose Business Journal. "The Coastal Act protects environmentally sensitive areas and the area we're talking about is entirely sensitive habitat. We don't see any way you can build a golf course in the area without negatively impacting this protected habitat."

  • For more quotes and current information on the P.B. Co.'s Measure "A" Initiative and pending applications for development, CLICK here to read the March 17, 2006 story in the Silicon Valley/San Jose Business Journal, "Pebble Beach golf plan back in the rough" on their web site, www.sanjose.bizjournals.com (an external link).
  • Or CLICK here to read the full article (on this website.)

3-10-06 - At the Public Hearing yesterday, March 9, 2006, the Coastal Commissioners and the public heard testimony from the commission's staff, Pebble Beach Co. representatives, a Monterey County representative, and individuals with comments for and against the Measure "A" Initiative.

Peter Douglas, Executive Director of the Coastal Commission, advised all in attendance that, within the next few months, their staff is expected to complete their analysis of the very complex changes in ZONING and POLICIES that Measure "A" would make in the Del Monte Forest 1984 Local Coastal Plan if it is certified. He estimated that the next Commission hearing on Measure"A" would be held in June, 2006 at Santa Rosa.


3-9-06 - THANKS to all of you who took time to SPEAK UP with your concerns about Pebble Beach Co's MEASURE "A" INITIATIVE at the California Coastal Commission Public Hearing in Monterey today.

CLICK here to read some of the comments made at
the Public Hearing and for Letters to the Editor.

To keep up-to-date on the future of Del Monte Forest and our organization's action plans/meetings, please send us your name and address for future mailings.

Our address: CR-PB & Mty Co., PO Box 1229, Pebble Beach, CA 93953. Email us at info@cr-pb.org.


3-08-06 - PETER DOUGLAS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION advised the Commissioners and the public at a briefing meeting before their tour of Del Monte Forest, that the Commissioners will probably be able to ACT ON THE MEASURE "A" INITIATIVE amendment to the Land Use Plan/Local Coastal Plan at a future meeting, probably in June when they meet in Santa Rosa.

Mr. Douglas made this estimate on future Commission action and a Public Hearing as the Commission Staff has not completed their in-depth analysis of Measure "A" and will not be able to provide the Commission and the public with a Final Report and Recommendations for several months.


3-08-06 - On Wednesday, March 8, 2006, the Coastal Commission Staff took the COMMISSIONERS on a TOUR of DEL MONTE FOREST to view the many areas where PB Co.'s commercial expansion projects are proposed and the LAND USE ZONING will be changed IF MEASURE"A" IS CERTIFIED.

The Commissioners saw where at least 17,000 trees would be removed and where the proposed commercial development projects would impact the nearby residential neighborhoods.

  • For more details CLICK here to read the Herald’s March 9. 2006 story, “On the Path of Measure A” on their website, www.montereyherald.com (an external link).

2-25-06 - The California Coastal Commission Staff on February 24, 2006 released their letter (TH8b) to "Commissioners and Interested Persons" regarding the MONTEREY COUNTY LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM MAJOR AMENDMENT NO. 1-05 (PEBBLE BEACH CO.'s MEASURE "A" INITIATIVE.)

This 81 page letter covers many of the major changes in the Del Monte Forest Land Use Plan (Local Coastal Program.) However, it states "NO RECOMMENDATION FOR COMMISSION ACTION IS BEING MADE AT THIS TIME." The letter covers important facts about Measure "A" that will no doubt be discussed at the Commission's Public Hearing in Monterey on March 9th at the Hyatt Regency Hotel.

The Staff letter includes the following: "Staff has not completed its review of the proposed amendment, which includes both land use plan and implementation amendments directly affecting over 600 acres of land in some two dozen distinct locations within the Del Monte Forest area."

At this time, Staff anticipates completing its review of the proposed amendment in the NEXT SEVERAL MONTHS and bringing the matter to the commission for action.

2-18-06 - Sierra Club members and other concerned residents hiked through Del Monte Forest Saturday, February 18th to view the area of P.B. Co.'s proposed new golf course and other sites where excessive commercial development projects are proposed. Mark Massara of the Sierra Club's Great Coastal Places campaign lead the tour. He explained where the 17,000 trees will be cut down if the Coastal Commission approves the P.B. Co.'s proposed projects. He also urged all concerned members and residents to attend the Coastal Commission Public Hearing on P.B. Co.'s Initiative, Measure "A", tentatively scheduled for March 9th in Monterey.


2-03-06- New letter from a landscape architect in Warrington, Virginia provides good reasons for not destroying the Historic Equestrian Center in Pebble Beach. "Bing Crosby's grand kids and kids rode here. Clint Eastwood's daughter rode here, Paul Anka's kids rode here, and I am sure I am missing some in that list." "Why don't they (PB Co.) renovate the old stable?"


12-23-05 - EACH CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSIONER received a small potted Monterey Pine tree decorated with hand-written notes/ornaments at their December 15th meeting in San Francisco. The Sierra Club representatives made the presentation of the small trees to highlight the adverse impact that will be created if the Commissioners approve PEBBLE BEACH CO.'s plan to CUT DOWN 17,000 MONTEREY PINES FOR ANOTHER GOLF COURSE IN DEL MONTE FOREST.

The chairperson of the Great Coastal Places (Sierra Club group), Tarren Collins, told the Commissioners, "We hope when you return home to your families and the holidays that you will take a moment to read some of the insightful comments from your neighbors and constituents and realize that there is no greater holiday gift you can offer to future generations than a protected Monterey Pine forest."

YOUR OPINION IS IMPORTANT!    The California Coastal Commission will be voting on PEBBLE BEACH CO.'s Measure "A" Initiative and PBCo Applications for Major Constructon Projects in Del Monte Forest sometime early in 2006. We urge you to read the NEW information on this website NOW to learn why you should be concerned and SEND A LETTER to the Director of the Coastal Commission with your opinions.

CLICK on each of these links to see these documents.

• REASONS TO SEND YOUR LETTER to the CCC Director, 715 Front St. #300, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (see below)

• LIST OF APPELLANTS AND SUMMARY OF REASONS for "Appeal from Coastal Permit Decisions of Local Government" (separate web page)

• SHORT SUMMARY of the PBCo. Applications (separate web page)

FIVE DETAILED REPORTS on how Pebble Beach Co's proposed major construciton projects in Del Monte Forest will have ADVERSE IMPACTS on the residential community (click on separate pages on this website)
• No.1. Equestrian Center Relocation
• No.2. New Golf Course
• No. 3. New Driving Range
• No. 4. Spanish Bay Resort EXPANSION
• No. 5. The Lodge at Pebble Beach EXPANSION

• LETTERS TO COASTAL COMMISSION from County residents with reasons why PB Co.'s proposed developments should not be approved (separate web page)

• LETTERS TO THE EDITOR commenting on the PBCo developments (separate web page)

• OTHER CURRENT COASTAL COMMISSION information and recent documents (see below)

 

REASONS TO SEND YOUR LETTER to the CCC Director in Santa Cruz

Reasons why you should be concerned about Pebble Beach Comany's proposed major construction projects in the Del Monte Forest, and write a letter to the Deputy District Director of the Coastal Commission.

• 17,000 trees cut down in Del Monte Forest

• Another commercial golf course and clubhouse
in the residential community

• New commercial Equestrian Center to be built on
dedicated scenic easements in the Sawmill Gulch area

• Spanish Bay Resort and The Lodge complexes expansions

• 1,200 Monterey Pines and 15 Oak trees cut down
for another golf Driving Range along Congress Rd.


We urge you to act now! Send a letter with your opinions to:
Charles Lester, Deputy District Director
California Coastal Commission
725 Front St. #300, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

BACK TO TOP

OTHER OLDER COASTAL COMMISSION INFORMATION AND RECENT DOCUMENTS

11-22-05 -- New MONTEREY PINE PTICH CANKER report indicates the disease has leveled off. Mortality for infected trees now only about 5 percent, far lower than predicted.


11-10-05 - Coastal Commission Staff announced that PUBLIC HEARINGS ON THE P.B. CO.'s APPLICATIONS for major construction projects in Del Monte Forest (and Measure "A" Initiative) are now TENTATIVELY SCHEDULED for MARCH 2006 in MONTEREY.

The Coastal Commission Staff envision a Commission field trip as being part of the March 2006 agenda to get Commissioners out into the Del Monte Forest to see the LOCATIONS of the PROPOSED MAJOR CHANGES in the Forest, the environment and residential community.


11-09-05 -- Coastal Commission Staff requires additional information from the County on the PROPOSED AMENDMENTS to the LOCAL COASTAL PLAN (Forest Land Use Plan) covering P.B. Co.'s Measure "A" Initiative and proposed development projects. A five-page letter to the County dated October 24, 2005 outlined the need for the ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REQUIRED BEFORE PUBLIC HEARINGS ARE SCHEDULED.


10-25-05 - Coastal Commission staff continues to receive letters from concerned County residents with reasons why the Pebble Beach Co.'s proposed development plans should not be approved. HAVE YOU SENT YOUR OPINIONS TO CHARLES LESTER, DIRECTOR, at 725 FRONT STREET, #300, SANTA CRUZ CA 95060 YET?

9-20-05 -- County Supervisors approved Resolution No 05-242 on Tuesday, September 20, 2005 to comply with a request from the Coastal Commission staff concerning PEBBLE BEACH CO.'s MEASURE "A" INITIATIVE. The new Resolution is only a procedural requirement. It states that the County intends to carry out the Initiative and amend the Forest Local Coastal Program (with many changes in zoning, etc.) in a manner fully in conformity with the California Coastal Act and the County's certified Local Coastal Program... IF... the Initiative is certified by the Coastal Commission.

 

8-10-05 - Today our organization submitted a new request to the California Coastal Commission outlining OBJECTIONS to PB Co.'s pending Application No. PLN040160 and Monterey County Board of Supervisors Resolution No. 05-063. This Application and Resolution cover proposed changes in the Conditions that are part of the Spanish Bay Resort Coastal Development Permit PC-5040 and REMOVAL OF PERMANENT SCENIC EASEMENTS ON THE SAWMILL BORROW SITE where the PB Co. proposes BUILDING A NEW EQUESTRIAN CENTER AND SPECIAL EVENT PARKING AREA. Coastal Commission action on this issue will be processed separately from the other PB Co. Applications according to the Commission Planner in Santa Cruz.

 

8-09-05 - The Coastal Commission Planner responsible for the PB Co's pending applications for major construction projects in Del Monte Forest is reviewing the TWENTY TWO (22) APPEALS submitted in June and the many letters that continue to be submitted with objections to the PB Co.'s plans. He has informed our organization that it is premature to estimate when the Coastal Commission Public Hearings will begin. Detailed information on these APPEALS is provided on a new separate page on this website.

 

7-14-05 - Dave Potter, County Supervisor, reappointed to a Fifth Term on the California Coastal Commission by State Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez.

The Coastal Commission also has a new member. Steve Padilla, Chula Vista Mayor, was selected to fill a vacancy from the San Diego area. For an updated list of Coastal Commissioners, go to www.coastal.ca.gov/roster.html (external link).

  • For information on opposition to Potter's reappointment CLICK here to read the July 14, 2005 story in the Monterey County Herald, "Potter set to serve fifth term" on their web site, www.montereyherald.com (external link).

 

7-05-05 - The French Newspaper, "Liberation", has joined two British newspapers and four US newspapers with an interesting story on Clint Eastwood and the PB Co's plans for major construction projects, including the eighth golf course in Del Monte Forest.

 

June 05 - See Summary of Newspaper articles on Pebble Beach Co.'s major development plans
    • Liberation, a French newspaper
    • Sacramento Bee
    • Great Britain's Independent newspaper
    • London Times
    • San Jose Mercury News    
    • USA Today
    • Monterey Peninsula Herald
    • Los Angeles Times
    • Carmel Pine Cone

6-30-05 - The Ventana Chapter of the SIERRA CLUB FILED AN APPEAL of the County's approval of the PB Co. proposed development plans with the Coastal Commission on March 29, 2005. On June 27, 2005 their attorney, S.E. Velyvis, Law Office of Thomas N. Lippe in San Francisco, sent the Commission staff additional reasons for opposing the PB Co.'s applications for proposed development plans.

 

6-30-05 - Monterey County Herald's story on the TWENTY TWO (22) APPEALS to the Coastal Commission fails to inform readers that this sets a new record. Thirteen organizations, eight individuals and two Coastal Commissioners (on one appeal) state valid reasons (not covered in the Herald) why the proposed PB Co.'s major construction projects in the Forest should not be approved.

 

6-27-05 - APPEAL FROM COASTAL PERMIT DECISION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT
(Monterey County Supervisors Approval of PB Co.’s Applications)

Summary list of the twenty-two appeals received by Coastal Commission as of 6-27-05

NOTE: Dan Carl, Coastal Commission Staff Planner, advised that only County approvals of PLN010254 and PLN010341 are appealable. The County's action on PLN040160 (modifying conditions of approval of PC-5040 and PC-5405 - Sawmill Barrow site) is not a coastal permit action because such changes are changes to the Coastal Commission's Spanish Bay coastal permit and must come through the Coastal Commission Staff office directly.

  • Helping our Peninsula’s Environment (HOPE), Carmel
  • Sierra Club Ventana Chapter, Carmel (with additional documentation)
  • Concerned Residents of Pebble Beach and Monterey County, Pebble Beach
  • Mary Ann Matthews, Carmel Valley
  • California Native Plant Society, Monterey Bay Chapter
  • League of Woman’s Voters, Monterey
  • Green Party of Monterey County
  • Carmel Valley Women's Network
  • Save our Peninsula Committee
  • Nancy Parsons
  • Ruth Gingerich
  • California Coastkeeper Alliance
  • Helaine Clark
  • Friends of the Sea Otter
  • Marilyn Hartwell Schlangen
  • Herman Medwin, Ph.D.
  • The Ocean Conservancy
  • Pacific Grove Neigbors
  • Karin Perling
  • San Luis Obispo Coastkeeper
  • Robert W. Shepner
  • Coastal Commissioners Meg Caldwell and Mary Shallenbeger

 

6-28-05 - The Coastal Commission Planner, coordinator for the PB Co. pending applications, mailed a "COMMISSION NOTIFICATION OF APPEAL" to all interested parties which indicates the 22 appeals were filed on June 27, 2005. Commission hearing dates have not yet been established for these appeals.

 

6-24-05 - State Supreme Court ruled unanimously on Thursday that the COASTAL COMMISSION, which makes land-use decisions along the 1,100 mile coastline, is a LEGAL AGENCY. This decision changes two lower-court rulings previously reported on this web site.

  • For more information on this subject CLICK here to read the June 24, 2005 story in the Monterey County Herald', "Coastal Commission legal, state court says" on their web site, www.montereyherald.com (external link).

 

6-22-05 - County Planning Dept. still working on documents associated with the MEASURE "A" INITIATIVE required by Coastal Commission staff. This data had been requested shortly after the voters approved the Initiative in November 2000. The Coastal Commission cannot schedule hearings on the Initiative that includes major changes in the Del Monte Forest Land Use Plan zoning and policies without the required documents from the County.

As previously reported, the California Coastal Commission must approve and certify the Initiative document before considering the PB Co's pending applications for major construction projects in the Forest. According to the Coastal Commission Planner, hearings on Measure "A" must be held separately from hearings on PB Co.'s applications.

 

6-15-05 - Update from Coastal Commission Staff Planner on PB Co. applications. Appeals to the Commission must be received at the Santa Cruz office by 5:00 PM on Monday, June 27, 2005.

Dan Carl, Coastal Commission Staff Planner, advised that only County approvals of PLN010254 and PLN010341 are appealable. The County's action on PLN040160 (modifying conditions of approval of PC-5040 and PC-5405) is not a coastal permit action because such changes are changes to the Coastal Commission's Spanish Bay coastal permit and must come through the Coastal Commission Staff office directly.

 

6-13-05 - Today the California Coastal Commission staff in Santa Cruz received the Monterey County official notification of the Board of Supervisors March 15th approval of the pending Pebble Beach Co. applications for 13 new major construction projects in Del Monte Forest. This document is known as the "Final Local Action Notice, or FLAN."

The Coastal Commission's 10 working-day appeal period begins tomorrow, June 14th according to Dan Carl, Coastal Commission Planner. He indicated that this date will hold if the notice is not deficient in some way.

Six Appeal documents (including Concerned Residents of Pebble Beach and Monterey County) were received by the CCC staff as of May 10, 2005. More Appeals may be submitted.

  • For more information on this subject CLICK here to read the June 12, 2005 story in the Monterey County Herald', "Forest plan goes to coastal panel" on their web site, www.montereyherald.com (external link).

 

4-29-05 - The Sierra Club, Ventana Chapter, is preparing to sue the County of Monterey over the Supervisors' March 15th approval of the Pebble Beach Co.'s massive development plans in Del Monte Forest. The Concerned Residents of Pebble Beach and Monterey County organization agrees that the Supervisors should be challenged. Lawsuits require money and the Sierra Club needs your financial support in this fight. As a supporter of our organization, please send tem your tax deductible contribution.

 

4-25-05 - Today the Concerned Residents of Pebble Beach and Monterey County organization joined others in submitting an "Appeal From Coastal Permit Decision of Local Government" form to the California Coastal Commission. This nine page document outlines, in detail, reasons why the Monterey County Board of Supervisors' decision to approve the "Pebble Beach Co.'s Del Monte Forest Preservation and Development Plan" warrants new hearings by the Coastal Commissioners. The Concerned Residents' Appeal on the PB Co. development plans lists numerous inconsistencies with the only existing, certified Monterey County Local Coastal Program/1984 Del Monte Forest Land Use Plan and Spanish Bay development permit conditions and associated irrevocable conservation easements.The changes in Del Monte Forest zoning and Land Use Policies, outlined in the Measure "A" Initiative document cannot be considered. That Initiative document must be approved and certified by the Coastal Commission before it can be used as a basis for new development projects in Del Monte Forest.

 

4-14-05 - Lawsuit has been filed to have Monterey County Superior Court overturn the County's March 15th approval of Pebble Beach Company's proposed plans for major construction projects in Del Monte Forest. Alexander Henson, an environmental lawyer, filed the suit for David Dilworth's "Help Our Peninsula's Environment" group. They claim the County's Environmental Impact Report for PB Co.'s projects does not adequately address impacts on the Forest (loss of 17,000 Monterey pines and other endangered plants) and does not provide alternatives for the proposed 8th golf course in the Forest.

4-12-05 - Supervisor Dave Potter's position on the powerful Coastal Commission is up in the air. His long tenure could end in May this year if not reappointed. State Assembly Speaker, Fabian Nunez, will select the next Commissioner who will have a four-year term. Many County organizations, including Concerned Residents of Pebble Beach and Monterey County, are leery of Potter's possible participation in Coastal Commission deliberations on Pebble Beach Co's pending Del Monte Forest development plans for major commercial expansion projects in the Forest. On March 15th, County Supervisor Potter voted FOR this controversial development.

  • To read more CLICK here for the Monterey County Herald's April 12th story, "Potter lobbies to keep coastal post" on their web site, www.montereyherald.com (external link).

  • Also CLICK here to read a letter to the Editor dated March 16, 2005 by Richard Magruder, "Save the coast" (on this website). Mr. Magruder states, "It is my fervent hope, shared by many conservationists and environmentalists throughout California, that the speaker will nominate someone more eager to protect the coastal zone from the mounting pressure exerted by wealthy, influential developers." He also writes, "I urge all who agree with my view to contact Assemblymen John Laird and Simon Salinas to impress upon them the need for Nunez to appoint an effective advocate for coastal conservation."


4-08-05 - There is no indication when a ruling will come from the California Supreme Court on the case about the California Coastal Commission's legal status. The public hearing in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 6, 2005 included comments from justices that seemed to agree with the Coastal Commission's attorney.

4-08-05 - There is no indication when a ruling will come from the California Supreme Court on the case about the California Coastal Commission's legal status. The public hearing in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 6, 2005 included comments from justices that seemed to agree with the Coastal Commission's attorney.

4-07-05 - California Supreme Court still considering the California Coastal Commission appeal on prior court action in the Case #S13466, Marine Forest Society (Ornage county) vs Coastal Commission. The case is about the Commission being a legal agency or not.

  • CLICK here to read more about the Supreme Court's April 6th discussion in Los Angelesin the Monterey County Herald's story, "Court ponders coastal panel's fate" on their web site, www.montereyherald.com (external link).

 

4-05-05 - A new Concerned Residents Bulletin is being mailed this month to property owners in the Forest and Del Monte Park Section of Pacific Grove near the area of the proposed new Equestrian Center in the Sawmill Gulch Scenic Easement sites.

4-05-05 - California Supreme Court will hear arguments in the case on Coastal Commission's constitutionality (Marine Forests Society, an Orange County group, vs CCC) on April 6, 2005 at 2:00 p.m., 300 Spring Street, Los Angeles. The Coastal Commission appealed a 2002 ruling stating that the Commission had too much power and was unconstitutional.

 

3-29-05 - A representative from National Public Radio (local station KAZU 90.3 FM) interviewed concerned residents of Pebble Beach and others today with a discussion on how the Pebble Beach Company's development plans will impact the Forest. This radio broadcast is expected to be aired later this week, or next week.

 

3-16-05 - County Supervisors approve Pebble Beach Co.'s plans for expanding commercial operations in Del Monte Forest. At Tuesday's hearing the Supervisors ignored many public comments on why the proposed development projects are excessive and would be too destructive to the incredible Monterey Pine tree forest. They enthusiastically endorsed all pending applications and indicated they were impressed with the Company's plans for new employee housing in the Del Monte Forest and low-cost housing in Pajaro. However, the California Coastal Commission must also OK the major development projects.

  • CLICK here to read the Herald's March 15th "Herald's View","Pebble Beach plan should go smoothly" (which was praised by Alan Williams, the developer for Pebble Beach Co. at the public hearing) found on page A8 and on the Herald's website, www.montereyherald.com (external link)

  • To read more about the Supervisors decision to approve the PB Co. developments, CLICK here for the Herald's March 16th story, "Pebble Beach plan approved" on their website, www.montereyherald.com (external link)
  • Also read this story ,"Pebble Beach Plan OKd" in the March 16th edition of the Los Angeles Times on their website, www.latimes.com (external link)

  • Also read this story, "Now comes the hard part for P.B. plan" in the March 18th issue of the Carmel Pine cone, www.carmelpinecone.com (external link).

 

3-16-05 - Readers are urged to contact Assemblyman John Laird and Simon Salinas and express the need for Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez to appoint an effective California Coastal Commissioner who advocates coastal conservation. Commissioner Dave Potter's term ends in May, 2005.

  • CLICK here to read the Letter to the Editor, "Save the coast" taken from the March 15th edition of the Monterey Herald on their website, www.montereyherald.com (on this website )

 

3-14-05 -- "Save This Forest" and "Protect the Coast of California" post cards are being sent to the California Coastal Commission Chairman, opposing Pebble Beach Co.'s destruction of Del Monte Forest.

Thanks to the Sierra Club, hundreds of Post Cards have been printed urging the Coastal Commission to protect the Monterey Pine Forest. Contact Mark Massara, Director of the Club's Coastal Program. Phone # 805-895-0963 to obtain Post Cards. Use messages on these Cards in your letter or cards to the California Coastal Commission, Coast District Office, 725 Front Street #300, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, phone # 831-427-4863, or to the Commission Chair at Stanford, CA (see post card.)

3-05-05 - Letter to the Editor of the Monterey Herald regarding the Coastal Commission.

3-03-05 - Another letter to the Editor of the Monterey Herald describing the Del Monte Forest treasures.

  • Click HERE to read this poetic story, "Treasures destroyed" about the Pebble Beach Company's development planson this website.

3-01-05 - California Coastal Commission Deputy Director's letter of 2/28/05 to Monterey County Board of Supervisors urges the Supervisors to not approve the Pebble Beach Co. development projects (at the Public Hearing on March 1, 2005). A key line in this letter refers to the County's plan to "undo" a condition of the Spanish Bay Permit in order to permit a new equestrian center in Sawmill Gulch, and reads: "This condition fails to consider the fact the Executive Director of the Commission is obligated to reject an application for a CDP (Coastal Development Permit) amendment if he/she determines that the amendments would lessen or avoid the intended effect of the original permit unless new material information is presented."

2-27-05 - New letter to the Monterey Herald editor covers "Pebble Beach (Co.) Hypocrisy" Read Mark Massera's letter (on this website)2-17-05 - Foes of Pebble Beach Co.'s proposed construction projects in Del Monte Forest made presentations for the California Coastal Commission at the Commission's public hearings on various coastal projects yesterday. Hearings are being held at the Portola Plaza Hotel in Monterey on February 16, 17 and 18, 2005.Ted Hunter, representing a growing number of concerned Residents of Pebble Beach and Monterey County, thanked the Commission Chairperson, Meg Caldwell, for sending a December 2004 letter to County officials stressing the importance of submitting the Measure "A" Initiative to the Coastal commission before processing the pending PB Co.'s applications for major construction in Del Monte Forest.Other speakers included Mark Massara, director of the Sierra Club's California Coastal Program, David Dilworth, representing Helping Our Peninsula Environment, and Gillian Taylor of the Ventana chapter of the Sierra Club.

  • For more detail CLICK HERE to read the Herald's February 17th story, "Close Measure A review urged" on their website, www.montereyherald.com (external link).

  • Also read a report of David Dilworth's "light moment" as he awarded a "Pants on Fire" and "Whopper" Awards at the Coastal Commission hearing (external link).

2-14-05 - Pebble Beach Co. sent invitations to California Coastal Commissioners to attend last weekend's events. They were invited to be guests at the AT&T Golf tournament and special AT&T National Pro-Am Luncheons held on Saturday and Sunday at The Lodge. Peter Douglas, Executive Director of the Commission, said the invitations were inappropriate.Later this year the Coastal Commission is expected to consider the November 2000 Measure "A" Initiative that covers major zoning and policy changes in Del Monte Forest. They will also hold public hearings on the pending P.B. Co. applications for major construction projects in the Forest, including another 18-hole golf course, expanded hotel facilities and relocation of the historic Equestrian Center, among other commercial expansion plans.Peter Douglas believes these "huge" development plans are among the top three land-use issues to come before the commission in the past six or seven years. He also believes that these invitations, or gifts of any kind, are inappropriate and have an appearance of impropriety.Alan Williams, the Pebble Beach Co.'s development partner, responded two days later.

1-25-05 - County Board of Supervisors has sent a reply to the December 22, 2005 letter from Meg Caldwell, Chair, California Coastal Commission indicating the County plans to proceed with its review of the PB Co.'s development applications and will forward both the applications and the Measure A Initiative to the Coastal Commission at the same time.

1-24-05 - The California Coastal Commission is to have the "final say" on decisions made by the County Planning Commissioners in the public hearing on Wednesday, January 26th on Pebble Beach Co.'s pending applications for major development projects in Del Monte Forest.

  • Click here to read the January 24, 2005 story, "Pebble Beach plan revisited" on the Monterey Herald website,www.montereyherald.com (external link)

1-11-05 - New letters to Chair of County Planning Commission recommend that County public hearings on PB Co.'s applications for major development projects in Del Monte Forest be delayed until Coastal Commission takes action on the Measure "A" Initiative covering major changes in the Forest Land Use Plan.Click here to read each of these letters on this website :

  • January 19, 2005 letter from Rita Dalessio, Chair, Sierra Club, Ventana ChapterJanuary 16, 2005 letter from Gary A. Patton, LandWatch Monterey CountyJanuary 11, 2005 letter from Concerned Residents of Pebble Beach & Monterey County
  • December 22, 2004 letter from Meg Caldwell, Chair, Coastal Commission

1-05-05 - Coastal Commission Chair, Meg Caldwell's letter to Monterey County Supervisors informs them that the Measure A Initiative, that is intended to amend the County's Local Coastal Program (LCP) & (Del Monte Forest Land Use Plan), must be fully reviewed by the Coastal Commission for conformance with the Coast Act before the Commission will be able to consider the Pebble Beach Company's pending development application.The County Planners, Thom McCue and Jeff Main have informed us that this letter will not make a change in the scheduled January 26, 2005 County Planning Commissioner's public hearing on the pending PB Co. applications. They also indicated a "continuance date" of February 9, 2005 has been set for the Planning Commissioners to continue their hearings on the PB Co. applications.

01-03-05 - Concerned Residents of Pebble Beach & Monterey County organization requested the Monterey County Planning Commissioners to allow adequate time for individuals and organizations to comment on each of the nine separate Pebble Beach Co. development projects, (not on one combined development plan), at their public hearing on January 26, 2005 in Salinas.

11-18-04 - During the Public Hearing, the County Subdivision Committee and Planning Department ignored California Coastal Commission Staff advise and recommendation, "...that the project (PB Co. applications for major construction projects in Del Monte Forest) not be heard until after there have been final Coastal Commission decisions on the LCP (Local Coastal Plan to include Measure "A" zoning and other changes) and coastal permit amendments (to previous Spanish Bay development) that would be required for the [PB Co.] project to proceed.

6/11/04 - Three new California Coastal Commissioners appointed by Governer. Steven Kram, Meg Caldwell, and Bonnie Neely sworn in last week in Sacramento.

Read the May 1st Carmel Pine Cone news story, "New commissioners seated..." at, http://www.carmelpinecone (extermal link)

4/07/04 - California State Agencies respond, with major concerns, to Draft EIR on PB Co.'s proposed development plans in Del Monte Forest.Letters to Thom McCue, Senior County Planner from the state Department of Fish and Game, Water Resources Control Board and California Coastal Commission make it clear that the Draft Environmental Impact Report on PB Co.'s proposed development projects is not adequate.Environmentally sensitive habitat area issues and lack of available water are among the many items that the State Agencies and 86 other individuals and organizations have described in letters to the County... confirming that the DEIR is inadequate.The County Subdivision Committee held a Public Hearing at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 8, 2004 in Salinas (Supervisors' Chambers, Church and Alisal Streets) on Pebble Beach Co.'s pending applications for major development projects in Del Monte Forest.Click HERE to read the 4/7/04 Monterey Herald story, "Concern over preservation plan" (on this website) or http://www.montereyherald.com/ (external link)Click HERE to read the 4/05/04 Monterey Herald story, "Pebble Beach plan goes to panel" (on this website) or http://www.montereyherald.com/ (extermal link)Please note that this news story does not cover this important recommendation by the Coastal Commission:

"...we recommend that Measure A be submitted and acted on...before the County further considers or acts on the proposed project.

Click HERE to read the Coastal Commission March 22, 2004 letter from Diane Landry, District Manager to Thom McCue, Senior County Planner,

Read the series of attachments to this letter. Five years of historically significant letters with specifically strong recommendations for Monterey county to correct procedures, resubmit documents and recognize ESHA.

Click HERE for names of Monterey County Planning Commissioners and Subdivision Committee members.

April 2, 2004 - Big Sur residents heard Coastal Commission Planner Rick Hyman comments on Monterey Pine and the County General Plan.

"Hyman said his proposals for changes to Monterey County's coastal land use laws would be submitted to county planners for inclusion in the county's general plan update process, which has already dragged on for years and which faces an uncertain future because of widely divergent views on what the plan should contain."

Click HERE to read the April 2nd Pine Cone news story, "Coastal planner gets an earful in Big Sur" (on this website) or http://www.carmelpinecone.com/ (extermal link)

MONTEREY COUNTY PERIODIC LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM REVIEW 

The Draft findings and recommendations on the Periodic Review of the Implementation of Monterey County's LCP will be presented to the Commission along with responses to comments received on the draft.The staff report as well as appendices to the report and supporting documentation will be available on the commission's web site at http://ceres.ca.gov/coastalcomm/index.html (external link)

March 22, 2004 - Coastal Commission responds to Monterey County DEIR of PB Co.'s development projects.

"We recommend that the DEIR be modified to acknowledge the sensitivity of project area resources... that an alternative project that avoids ESHA be evaluated and pursued... and that a revised DE1R be recirculated for review. In terms of process, we recommend that Measure A be submitted and acted on... before the County further considers or acts on the proposed project.

Click HERE to read the entire Coastal Commission challenging letter addressed to Thom McCue, Project Planner, Monterey County on this website.

March 26, 2004 - Public responses recently sent to County Planning Dept. on Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) covering Pebble Beach Co.'s pending applications for major construction projects in Del Monte Forest are on this website.Click HERE to read response letters from our organization and other residents in response to the DEIR (on this website)

The Del Monte Forest Property Owners website includes their DMFPO responses to this important Environmental Impact Report (external website)

March 19, 2004 - The California Coastal Commissioners' public meeting on a Review of the Local Coastal Plan was held this past week in Monterey. Non-agenda presentations were made by Peter Ueberroth, Co-Owner of Pebble Beach Co. and by the Company's Consultant, Mike Zander.They spoke in opposition to the Coastal Commission's Staff recommendations to classify the remaining indigenous Monterey Pine forest as an Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area. (ESHA).The PB Co.'s pending plans call for the removal of 15, 391 Monterey Pines and 1, 769 Live Oaks for another golf course and major expansion of their Resort complexes. Click HERE to read the March 19th Monterey Herald news story, "THREAT TO PINES DEBATE TOPIC" (on this website) or http://www.montereyherald.com/ (external link)

Click HERE to read the March 20th Carmel Pine Cone news story, "Pitched battle over pines, Big Sur" and Editorial (on this website) or http://www.carmelpinecone.com/ (external link)
 

NEW Update -- Voters did not approve the P.B. Co's Proposed development plans when they voted on Measure "A". The Measure "A" Initiative was placed on the ballot to change land use zoning and policies for the Del Monte Forest. These changes will only be effective if they are approved by the California Coastal Commission. The County Counsel office has advised that, if approved by the Supervisors, Measure "A" and Pebble Beach Co's application for proposed development will be submitted to the Coastal Commission as a "whole package".

Click HERE to read the County/Coastal Commission correspondence with more specific information about the processing of the Pebble Beach Company Initiative (on this website)

January 18, 2004 --California Coastal Commission's proposed new rules on protecting the Monterey Pine trees are covered in the January 18 Monterey Herald story, "Monterey pine safeguards urged".The recommended new rules would clasify stands of the Monterey Pine in the Del Monte Forest as "environmentall sensitive habitat areas". This may stop much of the proposed new development in the Del Monte Forest. This news story reports that it is estimated that, in the past, the County approved 512 new building permits which involved the loss of approximately 9,216 trees.

Click HERE to view this "Monterey pine safeguards urged" article from the January 18 issue of the Monterey Herald (on this website) or www.montereyherald.com/ (external link)

December 16, 2003 - Update on California Coastal Commission Dec. 10, 2003 Public Hearing-Periodic Review of Monterey County Local Coastal Plan (LCP).No formal action was taken by the Commissioners on 82 pages of proposed new rules. The CCC Staff reviewed a list of proposed new rules for Monterey County's coast at the public meeting. Some of the proposed changes in the LCP involve protection of environmentally sensitive Monterey Pine trees, ban on private wells, limits on the use of desalinated water, restriction on building in Big Sur and prohibit four lanes for Highway One in North County. County Supervisor Calcagno and others in attendance objected to the way the proposed new rules were devised without community input.Charles Lester, Director of the Coastal Commission's Santa Cruz office, indicated that the staff would meet with County Supervisors in January, 2004 and provide the public with a more focused presentation at their March public hearing.Click HERE to view "County protest derails strict new coastal rules--for now" article from the December 12 issue of Carmel Pine Cone (on this website)

Click HERE to read the proposed New Rules for the Monterey LCP (on this website)

Click HERE to view "Coastal panel raises anger" article from the December 21 issue of the Monterey Herald (on this website) or www.montereyherald.com/ (external link)Click HERE to view "County protest derails strict new coastal rules &emdash; for now" aticle from the December 12 issue of Carmel Pine Cone (on this website) or www.carmelpinecone.com/ (external link)

Click HERE to read more details of this COASTAL COMMISSION HEARING (on this website) or www.coastal.ca.gov/sc/W7a-12-2003.pdf (external link)

October 1, 2002 - CR-PB.ORG has received a copy of the California Coastal Commission letter of April 3, 2002 to Thom McCue, Monterey County Senior Planner, stating Measure A needs to be certified before P.B. Co. application is approved on this website. Especially note several paragraphs in this five-page letter that are highlighted in red (below), including...

"While Measure A ... was passed by voters in November 2000, it has not yet been determined if such actions are consistent with the Coastal Act. In order to make such land use/zoning changes to the County's Certified Local Coastal Program, an amendment must first be submitted to the Coastal Commission, including both the proposed Land Use Plan and Coastal Implementation Plan changes.... An LCP amendment application has not yet been submitted to the Coastal Commission; therefore, none of the land use/zoning designation changes related to the proposed development project have yet been approved. And it should be noted that without prior approval of such an amendment, many of the proposed project components may not be approvable under the existing LCP."
See these earlier letters documenting this LCP certification issue on this website:

January 8, 2002 - Rich Hyman, Coastal Commission Deputy Chief Planner responds to Vivial Sala: "...pursuing certification of Measure A as a local coastal program amendment at the same time that a coastal permit is being considered is inadvisable."November 16, 2001 - Ms. Vivian Sala, President League of Women Voters letter to Monterey County:"...submit Measure A to the Coastal Commission for certification as soon as possible"June 15, 2001 - Scott Hennessy responds to the Concerned Residents, "The County's current approach is to have Measure A, and related environmental data, presented to the Coastal commission in time for them to review the initiative and make a determination on ratification prior to the County's final approval on the specific development application which the Pebble Beach Company is now preparing."

May 26, 2001 - Letter to Scott Hennessy and James Colangelo, challenging the Flow Chart Exhibit "C" and Requesting Additional Written Detailed Information About Action on Measure A and the Pebble Beach Development Application Process.

Monterey County Presentation to the California Coastal Commission
Field Trip to Del Monte Forest - May 9, 2001

" PEBBLE BEACH DEVELOPMENT OVERVIEW - 1987 TO PRESENT" including a Summary of Measure A and Key Components of the Development Proposals, Exhibit A, Exhibit B and Exhibit C.

Coastal Commission tours forest

 Proposed development site shown: Monterey County Herald, May 10, 2001

"California Coastal commissioners got a glimpse of one of the most gorgeous areas of the Monterey Peninsula Wednesday with a tour through Del Monte Forest and a quick study of Measure A."

How the Coastal Commission operates: Monterey County Herald, May 14, 2001

"Try building anything along the coastline of the Monterey Peninsula and you'll soon learn who holds the power over development in the state."


California Coastal Commission Action
After Monterey County submits Measure "A" (the initiative) to the California Coastal Commission as an amendment to the Del Monte Forest Area Land Use Plan and Title 20 Zoning Ordinances, the Commission will determine if the amendment complies with the California Coastal Act by doing the following:

  1. Prepare a staff report on the proposalSet the item for a public hearingSchedule public hearings as required by regulationsStaff recommendations will be available for public review prior to the hearing
  2. After the close of public hearing(s), the Commission may either:
    1. approve the amendment without modification
    2. approve the amendment with suggested modification to the proposed amendment (in which case the Monterey County Board of Supervisors may either accept or reject the Commission's proposed revisions in order to complete the process)
    3. deny the proposed amendment all together (in which case this decision could go to the courts for final resolution.)

Additional information will be provided on expected Coastal Commission action when the Measure "A" documents are received by the Commission staff.  

Letters from the Coastal Commission regarding issues in Pebble Beach Company's implementation of Measure "A"
 
Coastal Commission Staff Report to the Chair of Monterey County Board of Supervisors
October 23, 2000 - Full text of the California Coastal Commission Staff Report with Questions and Comments on the Pebble Beach Company Zoning Plan, Measure"A"

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CONCERNED RESIDENTS OF PEBBLE BEACH
P.O. Box 1229, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
E.mail to info@cr-pb.org


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