Support the "Wildwood Legal Fund" – Help Us Ensure Responsible Development for Santa Ynez Valley

The Alamo Pintado Wildwood Project, located at the intersection of Alamo Pintado Road and Old Mission Drive in Solvang, California, has raised significant concerns within the community. This large-scale residential development is being fast-tracked under California’s Builder’s Remedy, which allows developers to bypass local zoning laws and city plans if a municipality fails to meet state-mandated housing goals. While intended to address California’s housing shortage, this provision has been misused in some cases, resulting in developments that don’t align with the needs or desires of local residents.

The Santa Ynez Valley Citizens Council (SYVCC) is advocating for the Wildwood Project to be re-submitted under the General Housing Element, which would bring it in line with the community’s comprehensive planning process. We are not against development, but we believe this project should be reviewed and revised to meet the needs of Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley, preserving the unique character and infrastructure of the area.

Disregard for Community Input: The Wildwood Project bypasses the wishes of the community by ignoring the Solvang General Plan and zoning laws. Despite strong opposition, this project is moving forward under the Builder’s Remedy, undermining local control and decision-making.

Out-of-Scale Development: The project proposes 100 apartment units, with only 13 designated as affordable housing—well below the 36 affordable units required by the General Plan. This high-density development, with three large buildings, doesn’t align with the small-town atmosphere that makes Solvang special.

Strain on Local Infrastructure: The project will strain Solvang’s already limited infrastructure, including traffic, emergency services, and utilities. The location of the project at a congested intersection raises safety concerns for residents and visitors alike.

Environmental and Historical Concerns: The development threatens local viewsheds and historic landmarks, including the Mission Aqueduct, which is vital to Solvang’s heritage. The environmental impacts of this project have not been adequately addressed, jeopardizing the area’s scenic beauty and historical significance.

Undermining Local Control: The Builder’s Remedy removes Solvang’s ability to regulate growth and development, disregarding the careful planning in the Solvang 2045 General Plan. This project undermines the community-driven goals of sustainable and thoughtful growth.

Our goal is not to stop the Wildwood Project entirely, but to ensure that it aligns with the General Housing Element, which strikes a balance between responsible development and preserving the community’s character. We believe in fostering growth that benefits all residents without compromising the unique features that make Solvang a beloved place to live and visit.

The Wildwood Legal Fund is essential for funding the legal efforts necessary to challenge the current application and ensure that any future development complies with the General Housing Element. Here’s how you can support this cause:

1. Donate: Contributions will fund legal costs, expert consultations, and public outreach to ensure that the Wildwood Project is reviewed properly.
2. Spread the Word: Share this information with your friends, family, and neighbors to help raise awareness and build support for responsible development.
3. Get Involved: Attend local meetings, volunteer with the SYVCC, and participate in community events to strengthen our collective voice and impact.

This is not just about one project—it’s about the future of our community. With your support, we can ensure that the Wildwood Project is properly re-submitted under the General Housing Element, promoting responsible growth that respects the needs and values of the residents of Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley.

Let’s work together to protect Solvang and preserve the charm, safety, and beauty of the Santa Ynez Valley for future generations.