Laguna Beach Council Advances Forest Promenade, Approves Utility Undergrounding District, and Continues Key Appeals at January 13th Meeting

The Laguna Beach City Council held an extensive meeting last week, approving major infrastructure investments, advancing wildfire mitigation efforts through utility undergrounding, and continuing several closely watched community issues, including an appeal involving a residential project and proposed changes to public right of way access.

Council Approves Forest Promenade Permanent Conversion Contracts

One of the most significant actions of the evening was final approval of construction and construction-management contracts for the permanent Forest Avenue Promenade.

The Council authorized:

• A $5.55 million construction contract with Superb Engineering

• A $340,950 contract with Nexgen Design Builders for construction management and inspection

• Up to $1.1 million in contingency funds for unforeseen conditions

• The reallocation of $4.4 million from inactive capital projects to fully fund construction

City staff presented detailed explanations of the bidding process, flood-risk studies, and construction phasing. Engineers reported that updated flood modeling showed the project would not worsen flood conditions and would slightly improve drainage during major storm events.

Public Comment

Public comment reflected long-standing community divisions over the project:

• Some residents questioned cost increases and asked whether the promenade reflects broad public support.

• Others expressed concern about long-term flood liability and urged additional independent review.

• Supporters argued the promenade has been successfully tested for years and should now be made permanent.

Outcome

After discussion emphasizing business outreach, pedestrian access during construction, and flood safety compliance, the Council unanimously approved the contracts, clearing the way for construction to begin in the coming weeks.

Utility Undergrounding District Approved with Overwhelming Support

The Council also concluded a formal public hearing and ballot count for Underground Utility Assessment District 2021-3 (Fairview/La Brea).

Under the proposal, utilities in the area would be undergrounded, with costs shared between property owners and the City, partly funded through wildfire mitigation resources.

Ballot Results

• 82% of weighted ballots supported the district

• 59 votes in favor, 15 opposed

• One of the strongest approval margins the City has seen for an undergrounding district

Outcome

With majority support confirmed, the Council:

• Formally approved the district

• Authorized a $2.8 million construction contract

• Approved City contributions totaling $949,160

• Authorized contingency funding for unforeseen costs

The vote was unanimous, and council members noted the unusually strong consensus among affected property owners.

Right of Way Easement Near Monterey Street Continued After Public Opposition

The Council pulled from the Consent Calendar an item proposing an amendment to an easement near 31131 Monterey Street, which would have allowed limited private parking within a public right-of-way near a trail and emergency access route.

Public Comment

Residents and neighborhood representatives strongly opposed the proposal, arguing:

• The area serves as an important emergency evacuation route

• Public land should not be converted to private use

• Narrowing access could increase wildfire evacuation risks

• The proposal could set a broader precedent affecting other neighborhoods

Fire and police representatives explained that fire engines would not typically use the roadway but acknowledged its role in emergency egress.

Outcome

After discussion focused on evacuation safety and public access, the Council voted unanimously to continue the item, directing staff to explore alternatives that preserve emergency access and public right-of-way width before returning with recommendations.

Community Land Trust Artist Housing Moves Forward

Another Consent Calendar item pulled for discussion involved amendments to the purchase agreements for artist live work properties at 2307 and 2535 Laguna Canyon Road, part of the City’s Community Land Trust initiative.

Public Comment

Representatives from the Community Land Trust provided updates, reporting:

• Due diligence is nearly complete

• Financing, nonprofit status, and property management are in place

• No major issues identified during inspections

• Target closing date in early February

Outcome

With no opposition raised, the Council unanimously approved the amended agreements, keeping the acquisition process on track.

Laguna Playhouse Lease Amendment Continued for Further Review

The Council also considered a proposed lease amendment and $500,000 in one-time funding for the Laguna Playhouse intended to expand community access and programming.

City leadership emphasized the need for additional clarity regarding:

• Community use terms

• Cost structures for renters and nonprofits

• Operational impacts

Outcome

The item was continued unanimously to a later meeting to allow further refinement before a final vote.

Appeal of Valido Road Residential Project Continued

The Council opened a public hearing for an appeal of Design Review Board approval for a new single-family residence at 31526 Valido Road.

Outcome

The hearing was formally opened and continued to February 24, allowing additional time for review and public input.

Looking Ahead

Residents can expect upcoming meetings to revisit the Monterey Street easement, the Laguna Playhouse lease, and continued appeals and planning matters.

We encourage readers to share this recap with neighbors and community members who want a clear, accessible understanding of what’s happening at Laguna Beach City Hall. We’ll continue providing coverage of future Council meetings to help keep residents informed and engaged.