The recent settlement approved by the residents of Paradise Cove represents a remarkable sea change in one of the most beautiful spots in Malibu. The credit for this goes to the Malibu City Council for taking the initiative to propose an alternate course to ten years of litigation. The Kissel Company has offered a very good compromise to the residents that incorporates some excellent details: provisions for low-income residents to avoid economic eviction; details concerning timetables for the construction of a new wastewater system; and a seven-year phase-in of the rent increase. When one considers the downside of continued litigation, this is really a wonderful opportunity that the residents have wisely seized.
As a resident of the Cove for ten years, I heard some very negative things about the Kissel Company. When I became President of the Homeowners Association and sat down with Steve Dahlberg of the Kissel Company one-on-one, I found him to be reasonable, open to the concerns of the residents, and eager to reach consensus toward what are essentially common goals with the residents. I also found him to be a man of his word. I have full confidence that the Kissel Company will honor its side of the agreement and that the residents will be seeing some rapid changes in the Cove.
To the residents of Malibu: The days of Paradise Cove appearing in the local newspapers only in terms on litigation and conflict are over. The thorn of Paradise Cove has been removed from the City of Malibu. The City Council and the residents of Malibu can focus their full attention and energy to all of the other challenges facing Malibu.
Like everyone who lives in the Cove, I realize how lucky I am to live in one of the most beautiful spots on the planet. On behalf of the residents of Paradise Cove, I want to sincerely thank the City Council for brokering a realistic compromise ending ten years of conflict. I also want to thank the Kissel Company for offering very generous terms with some excellent guarantees. I look forward to working with the Kissel Company to restoring peace and harmony in Paradise.
Rick Mullen, President
Paradise Cove Homeowners Association