I spoke to the City Council this past week about the need for a “View Ordinance,” giving property owners an effective means of maintaining -or better, restoring – the view from their homes that was the reason they bought their homes in the first place. Views from one’s home, especially those of the ocean, have an aesthetic dimension, of course. Of greater importance, especially if the homeowner is selling his home or considering doing so, is the financial dimension. A clear view of the ocean, one not obstructed by trees, is worth many thousands of dollars. Real estate brokers especially prize such homes for resale.
The council has a view ordinance “under test” in Malibu Country Estates, I was told, because of the controversial nature of such legislation. More time was needed to assess its impact before enacting such a law for the entire city.
My response: most laws are controversial except those outlawing man-eating sharks.
My experience may be like that of many Malibu homeowners who have lived here for some years, who have bought or built a home with a clear view of the ocean, then to have a new neighbor who thoughtlessly planted trees and shrubbery without regard to its effect upon other neighbors,
I hope other Malibu homeowners with similar problems will make their views known to the City Council. The time for “testing” is past.
Leon Cooper