Reject these Builders Remedy Projects

To: SB City Decision-Makers

RE: Reject these Builders Remedy Projects

Dear Decision Makers/Staff:

Citizens Planning Association has been following development in the City of Santa Barbara for more than six decades. We have always advocated for transparency, public input, and adherence to existing planning policies. CPA is a member of Allied Neighborhoods Association and agree with the points they raised in their September 1, 2024 letter.

CPA voiced its concerns regarding the Builders Remedy loophole during the Housing Element process, both at the County and city levels. So here we are, facing several totally incompatible projects in our single family residential areas.

505 E. Los Olivos

CPA agrees that this project is totally incompatible with the existing neighborhood. An eight story complex doesn’t belong here. CPA reminds staff the public outrage over the 8 story hotel proposal for the property that eventually became the Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens. Height limit policies were adopted by the City after that fiasco to avoid exactly what these out-of—town developers are proposing in this historic district.

This parcel is also in a Very High Fire Hazard Zone. This zone designation was created to prevent increased density due to potential wildfare danger and lack of adequate evacuation routes.

1609-1615 Grand Avenue

This Builders Remedy project with its 50 units on a steep slope in a hilly area is also totally incompatible with existing residences. This area of the Lower Riviera has narrow streets, very little parking and is not near public transportation.

Both these projects do not add the needed affordable housing to our City. Such density belongs in the downtown corridor where workforce housing will add vibrancy to our commercial district.

The current State Mandates with this Builders Remedy loophole are facing challenges from communities throughout California. CPA urges our City to reject these outrageous proposals as they violate all existing city planning and zoning policies.

Marell Brooks, President
Citizens Planning Association