Save East Beach Grill

Open Letter to Paul Casey, Chief Administrator, City of Santa Barbara

The decision to close East Beach Grill at the end of 2017 sends the public an important message: The City of Santa Barbara disregards the enduring pleasure of all people, residents and tourists alike, from returning to a historic and authentic California grill.

Who would ever have thought that the City of Santa Barbara would close down Francisco Aguilera’s grill after 33 years of serving healthy food to set up a bar and café? Is this your goal in the 21st century? To find locations to make money, locations that will serve liquor, no matter that the bar will be less than eight feet from an established children’s playground? Surely that in and of itself is against the codes of California?

What about all of Mr. Aguilera’s clientele? We have consistently gone to his grill for the service, which is excellent, and the great food. Are our opinions of no concern to you, Mr. Casey?

I ask you, as hundreds of others have: Please reconsider your decision to close Mr. Aguilera’s grill. Preserve a true California beach grill!