Help Us Preserve the Santa Ynez Valley

The Fight for Solvang's Future: Help Us Fight the Legally Defective 100-Unit Wildwood Project

The City of Solvang is currently advancing a proposal for the 100-unit Wildwood Project at the intersection of Alamo Pintado Road and Old Mission Drive, a plan that unfortunately does not align with the essential standards set by the Solvang Housing Element and the broader objectives of Solvang's General Plan or State Policy aimed at increasing affordable housing. While the Santa Ynez Valley Citizens Council (SYVCC) is not opposed to the development itself, we are committed to ensuring that any growth maintains the unique charm and character of Solvang and adheres to responsible development principles. Currently, this project is being expedited under Builder’s Remedy laws, which bypass local zoning regulations and overlook critical community concerns. Our goal is to advocate for modifications to this proposal that respect our town's architectural heritage and safety standards, ensuring that it enhances rather than compromises the community we cherish.

A Project That Defies the Law and Common Sense

The Wildwood Project, as it stands, is not only oversized and out of place but also legally flawed. The city’s decision to modify the project application—allowing a reduction in the number of low-income units from 36 to just 13—further undermines the original intent of the General Plan. This disregard for our community's voice and the law is unacceptable.

Key issues include:

Violation of the General Plan: The application as it stands disregards Solvang’s General Plan by proposing to develop nearly the entire 5.5-acre site with far fewer low-income housing units than initially planned. The city’s decision to move forward with this project, in its current form, betrays the community’s vision for a more balanced, sustainable development.

Increased Traffic and Safety Concerns: The project is located at a notoriously congested intersection. Adding 100 units to this already dangerous spot will only exacerbate traffic, increase accidents, and hinder emergency response times, making it an even more hazardous area for both residents and visitors.

Bypassing Community Input: Solvang’s Planning Manager is fast-tracking this project, dismissing the concerns and opposition of residents who are overwhelmingly against this reckless development. The city has not properly engaged the community, undermining the principles of democracy and fairness.

Why This Fight Matters

This fight isn’t against development—it’s for responsible development that respects Solvang’s General Plan, prioritizes community safety, and maintains the unique character that makes Solvang a special place to live. We believe in thoughtful, well-planned growth that keeps our community’s values intact and ensures that future generations can enjoy the same vibrant, sustainable environment we do today.

This battle goes beyond the Wildwood Project. It’s about ensuring that Solvang remains a place where community comes first, where safety, sustainability, and the preservation of our town’s historic charm are prioritized over unchecked, overzealous development.

Urgent Call for Community Support: Time Is Running Out

As we face a critical period in our efforts to address the challenges posed by the current 100-unit Wildwood Project, it is more important than ever to rally community support and gather the necessary financial resources to take effective action. Despite our attempts to collaborate with the city, we have not been successful in reaching an agreement that aligns with the General Plan and the essential character of Solvang. With time running out, we urgently need your help.

How Your Contributions Make a Difference

Your generous donations are vital at this juncture to empower our community to respond effectively to this pressing issue. Here’s how your support will be utilized:

Legal Assistance: Your financial contributions are crucial in sustaining our efforts with our dedicated legal team, who are committed to holding the city accountable. The project as proposed not only undermines the General Plan but also flouts established legal standards. As we prepare for the possibility of a legal challenge, the associated legal expenses are significant but necessary to ensure our community's voice is heard and acted upon in the courts.

This is a pivotal moment for our community, and every contribution, no matter the size, plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Solvang. Your support enables us to stand firm in our commitment to preserving the charm and safety of our neighborhood. Together, we can make a difference. Please consider contributing to our cause today.

Traffic and Safety Analysts: Expert analysis is needed to demonstrate how this project will negatively affect traffic, safety, and the overall well-being of Solvang residents. Your donations will help us gather the data needed to make a compelling case.

Community Outreach and Advocacy: We are committed to amplifying the voices of residents who oppose this project. With your help, we can organize community meetings, awareness campaigns, and other outreach efforts to apply pressure on the City to act responsibly.

Together, We Can Preserve the Heart of Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley

We are at a critical juncture in the history of our Valley. Without immediate action, the proposed Wildwood Project threatens to irrevocably change the fabric of our community. This development could compromise local safety, exacerbate congestion, and erode the unique charm that makes the Santa Ynez Valley a treasured locale in California.

Your involvement is essential to prevent this project from moving forward in its current form. Your financial support will directly empower our efforts to challenge the project effectively and ensure that any development respects the values and needs of our community.

Please consider making a donation today. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us closer to a future where the Santa Ynez Valley's development is thoughtful, responsible, and community-focused. Let's keep the decision-making in the hands of those who call this valley home—not in the hands of external developers or disconnected officials. Together, we can protect and enhance the place we love.

Suggested Donation Levels:

$50: Supporter of Responsible Growth

$100: Champion of Community Values

$500+: Defender of Solvang’s Future

We are counting on you to stand with us in the fight to protect Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley. Together, we can ensure that Solvang remains a safe, sustainable, and law-abiding community.

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

The Santa Ynez Valley Citizens Council