Carlsbad homeowner John Levy is challenging a $2.4 million fine from the California Coastal Commission over alleged beach access and environmental violations, arguing that while the underlying disputes are typical, the commission’s power to impose massive penalties without court oversight violates due process.
California Coastal Commission
Posted inPolitics & Policy
California’s last nuclear power plant faces renewed scrutiny as it gains latest permit
The California Coastal Commission is requiring the state’s last nuclear power plant – Diablo Canyon, near San Luis Obispo – to conserve 4,000 acres of surrounding land to keep operating until 2030.
Posted inHousing & Development
More housing on the California coast? Changes at this agency signal a pro-building shift
Three new pro-development appointees at the powerful California Coastal Commission are trying to remedy its poor reputation among housing activists and Democratic leaders.
Posted inHousing & Development
Downtown Plan Expansion — with 1,600 new housing units and pathway to new Santa Cruz Warriors arena — wins state’s OK
The California Coastal Commission has signed off on Santa Cruz’s Downtown Plan Expansion, clearing the way for taller buildings, up to 1,600 new housing units and a potential new Santa Cruz Warriors arena south of Laurel Street.
Posted inLatest News
Rivas ousts Justin Cummings from Coastal Commission, appoints pro-development Monterey County Supervisor Chris Lopez
Speaker Robert Rivas’ appointment of Monterey County Supervisor Chris Lopez to the California Coastal Commission marks a dramatic change in philosophy as the state land-use agency faces mounting pressure from the Trump administration and legislators up and down California.
Posted inAptos
Rio Del Mar HOA’s fence spar over public walkway expected to go to trial later this year
A long-running dispute over public coastal access in Aptos nears a courtroom resolution, after the Rio Del Mar Beach Island Homeowners Association doubled down in the face of a historic, multimillion-dollar fine from the state for fencing off a public walkway.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Justin Cummings has shored up unparalleled support for a Coastal Commission reappointment. Will it be enough?
Santa Cruz County Supervisor Justin Cummings has unanimous regional support to remain on the powerful California Coastal Commission. But the decision is up to Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas — whose political calculations could complicate what looks to many like a clear choice.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Protesters to rally at Coastal Commission meeting in Santa Cruz to block SoCal offshore drilling plans
Protesters are planning a rally outside a California Coastal Commission meeting in Santa Cruz on Wednesday to oppose efforts by a Texas company to restart an offshore oil and gas pipeline in Santa Barbara County a decade after it ruptured, causing a damaging oil spill.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Fear and fallout: California officials scramble to counter Trump’s anti-Coastal Commission agenda
California lawmakers and Coastal Commission officials are taking the Trump administration’s threats seriously, as federal pressure to overhaul the agency could affect Los Angeles wildfire aid. With tensions rising, officials are mobilizing to protect the state’s coastal policies from political interference.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Justin Cummings’ future on powerful Coastal Commission uncertain as Speaker Rivas reopens application process
Santa Cruz County Supervisor Justin Cummings’ future on the California Coastal Commission is uncertain as Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas opens the application process for his seat. With political dynamics at play, Cummings must now reapply for his influential role.