I took time to read the sections of the Local Coastal Plan that relate to building on ridgelines and, whether we like it or not, John Mazza was correct in his testimony before the Planning Commission last week. This project should not have received an administrative approval and the Planning Commission should have heard a request for a variance. Only the Planning Commission, not the Planning Department, can approve a variance. The planning manager did not state that Mr. Mazza was incorrect but rather, when as asked by Commissioner Anthony, he simply replied he granted approval because this is a “small project.”
What is the definition of a “small project” and when does a “small project” become a favor for a friend or an influential developer? The purpose of the Planning Commission is to review decisions by the Planning Department to ensure a level playing field for all citizens. It is not appropriate for the Planning Commission to allow the Planning Department to determine who has to play by the rules and who does not. That is how the process can become corrupted.
Richard Carrigan
Former chairman, Planning Commission