Help Protect Solvang’s Future

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

The  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 100-unit 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) has opposed this Builder’s Remedy project from the start, by appearing before the Solvang City Council over 100 times, and by helping to fund a crack team of expert land use attorneys who sent numerous letters to the City Attorney warning that the City was violating the Builder’s Remedy law in many respects. When the City continued to process the defective application, we supported a lawsuit against both the City and developer. Although not a party of the lawsuit, we have been a primary source of funds. Although that case has not been resolved, we have gotten the developer’s attention.

in August, the developer asked SYVCC and Mission Oak Owners Association if settlement discussions would be possible based on a new plan for 50 units on the lower 2.5 acres of his property. It was agreed to negotiate, and a successful mediation session has already taken place.

So, we are successful so far. The developer’s proposed 50-unit project aligns with Solvang’s General Plan Housing Element, approved by the City, and certified by the State. This was our goal from the very beginning. But there are many details to work out and we need the continuing help from our attorneys. Even though the attorneys have granted their clients a reduced rate, we have significant bills to pay. 

How You Can Help

Our Legal Fund is essential for funding the legal efforts necessary to continue our settlement discussions with the developer ad pay past due bills.  . Our goal is to conclude our discussions with a Final Settlement Agreement. Here’s how you can support this cause:

1. Donate: Legal Fund contributions will fund legal costs, expert consultations, and public outreach to ensure that the revised Wildwood Project is processed properly.  Your checks to the SYVCC should be noted, “legal fund” or donate on our website: https://syvcc.betterworld.org/donate

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, join the SYVCC, and participate in community events to strengthen our collective voice and impact. :  https://syvcitizenscouncil.org/membership

 

Together, We Can Protect Solvang’s Future

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

Protect Solvang’s Future: Support the Santa Ynez Valley Citizens Council

The Wildwood Project as currently proposed, threatens the heart of Solvang, disregards the General Plan Housing Element and the concerns of local residents. This development is legally defective, and its design could overwhelm our local infrastructure, create severe traffic issues, and disrupt the unique, small-town charm that we hold dear.

At the Santa Ynez Valley Citizens Council (SYVCC), we are dedicated to ensuring that Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley grow responsibly.  The Wildwood Project bypasses these essential guidelines, and without immediate action, it will have lasting consequences on the character and safety of our town.