I encourage every Malibu homeowner and resident to read the new Local Coastal Plan or at the very least talk to someone who can provide you with a rational perspective of what the LCP actually says. The Malibu LCP that I read does not resemble any of the attack ads that have been appearing in our local paper.
For example: The Malibu LCP deals only with the new development and does not apply to existing development. The Coastal Act and the Malibu LCP specifically exempts all disaster rebuilds from the need for a permit and allows for a 10 percent size increase. The Malibu LCP specifically exempts all “legally existing” development, including equestrian use, from its provisions. Developed properties are not included in the Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Area maps in the Malibu LCP. Less than 14 percent of private property in Malibu is identified as ESHA. Even if an undeveloped property is identified as an ESHA, the Malibu LCP does not prevent all development. Even in an ESHA a landowner can build a 10,000 square foot pad.
Given the above, why would anyone who owns a home in Malibu be arguing against the LCP? The LCP’s provisions, which call for low-density development and which help protect the rural character of Malibu, will only enhance our property values. Learning the truth about the Malibu LCP will enable you to make informed decisions. We can sort this out.
Bruce Arlen