Goleta’s Foothill Views Disappearing Right Before Our Eyes
Mountains, Ocean, and Skies in Danger of Being Lost, Too
Recent construction of new developments in Goleta has drawn criticism primarily for increasing traffic and raising demands for water. More and more I’m also hearing complaints about the effects of this construction on our eyes. Views of Goleta’s surrounding foothills, mountains, ocean, and skies are being replaced by views of bricks and mortar and parking lots.
Approvals of Goleta development and redevelopment are not over. There may still be time to save the visual quality of our community. To that end I want to offer some ideas and language “borrowed” from one California city, even if some of these ideas seem somewhat extreme or radical. However, these ideas may find support among Goletans who think our community views add to our enjoyment, quality of life and property values.
Goleta needs to make clear the importance of our views with General Plan statements like this: “The Goleta Valley is well known for the scenic beauty of its open spaces, foothills, and ocean and mountain views.” And, “Aesthetic values are important aspects of a community in establishing its identity, sense of place, and quality of life.” Let’s make a bold statement committing us to “Preserve and protect Goleta’s scenic and historic resources to the maximum extent possible.”
