California Coastal Commission, 40 years of Happy Birthdays

The Daily Journal (San Mateo County), Samantha Weigel, 11/23/12. "Coastal Commission marks 40 years."

Celebrating CA Coastal Commission 40 years

"This month, the California Coastal Commission is celebrating the 40th anniversary of Proposition 20, the statewide initiative that created the environmental protection agency that provides development and planning oversight to preserve California’s 840 miles of coastline.

The voter initiative led to the 1976 passage of the California Coastal Act, which imparts restrictions and planning options for coastal developers.

Did you remember the parking meter?

Over the years, the commission has ensured public access to the six-mile coast side trail in Half Moon Bay and will be deciding the city of  Pacifica’s request to implement beachside parking meters. The commission has also been working in conjunction with Caltrans for more than 15 years to create the San Mateo County Highway 1 tunnel that will avoid the strip of coast known as Devil’s Slide.

The Coastal Act coalesced the previously separate entities with one body providing consistent coastal regulation. Its mission is to ensure public access to the coast and enhance protection for coastal resources such as habitats and wetlands, sensitive plants, animals, agriculture and scenic rural landscapes. 

The Coastal Commission is responsible for implementing Coastal Act policies and does so through partnerships between state and local governments. The Coastal Commission is made up of approximately 112 staff members and 12 appointed commissioners, Christie said."   Read Article.  

Reference -  California Coastal Commission.

Posted by Kathy Meeh