The following letter was sent to Gov. Gray Davis.
We are deeply concerned that the currently proposed “Local” Coastal Plan (LCP) for Malibu has been drafted with blatant disregard for the facts of life in Malibu and the necessary “local” input. The California Coastal Commission (CCC) seems to be unaware that it is putting the City of Malibu, the state of California and other government agencies at risk in many respects if it implements the proposal as currently drafted. Your leadership in this matter is urgently needed, in fact, before Sept. 12.
We respectfully request that the California Coastal Commission incorporate the City of Malibu’s recommendations into the LCP. The CCC’s proposed plan does not appropriately reflect the realities of this area. Historically, whether Chumash or European settlers, the residents of the Malibu area treasured its natural beauty and created opportunities for people to benefit from the resources of its land and marine environment.
Today there are many needs to be considered, but perhaps none are more important and urgent than the protection of life and property from the devastating fires promoted by the terrain and native flora in and below the Santa Monica Mountains. For example, it is completely unrealistic and dangerous for the California Coastal Commission to prohibit fuel maintenance and landscaping options that are necessary to mitigate fire danger.
We love the natural setting of Malibu and are saddened by any overbuilding and/or, overpopulation of this area. However, the Coastal Commission and the City of Malibu should have a joint responsibility, to protect the natural beauty of the coastal zone and to safeguard the lives and properties of those who seek out Malibu, be it as their home work or recreation destination.
Local input into the plan is absolutely essential to ensure the safe balance of the realities of our natural environment and the existence of the City of Malibu.
Annette and Werner Baumgartner