Re-Historic

Years ago we purchased the Mattei’s property because of its historic character as a beloved local landmark [“Mattei’s Tavern Nominated as Historic Landmark,” 1/16/2010]. Our goal is to restore Felix Mattei’s original vision by preserving the historic restaurant as a local gathering place, and creating a small, quiet inn where visitors can enjoy the history and rural charm of Los Olivos. We fully support moving forward with the historic landmark designation process once our project has been completed.

As part of the planning process, the Historic Landmarks Advisory Commission [HLAC] is reviewing the full proposal. We have retained a respected architectural historian and are working with the HLAC to make sure that any aspects of the entire site that have historic merit are protected. That includes our plan to preserve and restore the Mattei’s building and the three cabins that have historic merit.

We obviously do not support any premature efforts to abuse the historic landmark process and to stop us from restoring the property as we are proposing. That’s contrary to county practice and basic property rights.

Lastly, we were also very surprised and disappointed that the Valley Alliance did not have the courtesy to contact us in regard to this matter. —Ward Bourdeaux, Scenique Properties