I sadly must agree with my former colleagues on the Planning Commission, the planning process is no longer functioning, to assure compliance with the General Plan, the Municipal Code, and now the Local Coastal Program. As a result, projects often are appealed and litigation potential increases. Residents expect their interests are being protected and that rules are equally applied.
I served on the Planning Commission for five years, with two terms as Chair. The job of the Commission is indeed time consuming. Hearings are often lengthy, but the public must be given the opportunity to participate. Staff reports should be reviewed for accuracy, and project sites need to be visited to assure consistency. Rules should be applied equally to all. This involves a great deal of work, education and commitment to the role.
The General Plan was created with much public input, and the long-term goals were to protect that special Malibu quality of life-development subordinate to-the natural setting. By State law, projects must be found consistent with the General Plan. The Municipal Code is to implement the General Plan. Somehow, that process has broken down. And, that is the answer to the often asked question…What has happened to Malibu?
Charleen Kabrin