New Development

Development tends to be controversial, largely because people are uncomfortable with change. In California, we also have to deal with extensive over-regulation which adds stress by taking away some of our local control. We experienced this with the Highrose project. Part of leadership around development is deciding when to challenge state laws, and when you are risking taxpayer money with little chance of success. We may see more of this as the housing crisis in California continues, including here in Manhattan Beach where our young people cannot afford to move home to the town where they grew up. Navigating this balance in the best interest of our community requires leadership and walking a fine line.

The development of the Parking Structure 3 lot presents a new development challenge. What is the best use of that land in the heart of our town? Lack of parking is an issue, and our residents are understandably concerned. However, it’s possible we could connect Lot 3 with the underground lot at Metlox, creating MORE parking than before. Metlox was funded by COPS (no, not the police). COPS are “certificates of participation.” They are like a bond, but instead of increasing taxes they are paid by the revenue from the parking meters. If you consider a significant portion of that revenue is generated by people from outside Manhattan Beach, it’s an option worth considering.

Development should always be approached with one eye on the future. We should consider what it brings to our community, but also what we are leaving behind. And it’s important to consider the unintended consequences such as increased traffic or blocked views when evaluating a project. Cost is also a big part of evaluating development. Sometimes the most exciting plans get thrown out the window when it comes down to the actual execution from a cost perspective.