Destroyed dune (in the O.C.) will cost dearly

[question everything]

Published January 31, 2006

Destroyed dune will cost dearly

Newport residents who leveled sand agree to pay fine of $225,000 and fund restoration effort.

By Alicia Robinson, Daily Pilot

Five West Newport homeowners will be fined $225,000 and also will have to pay the cost of restoring a protected sand dune damaged last year if the California Coastal Commission agrees to a settlement next week.

The 150-foot-long dune on Newport Beach city property between Sonora and Olive streets was bulldozed illegally in April 2005, according to a commission report. Sand dunes are rare habitats protected by state law. It's also a potential nesting spot for the endangered California least tern.

A Newport Beach police investigation determined the five homeowners hired someone working on the Santa Ana River dredging project to flatten the dune, presumably to improve views from their West Ocean Front homes.

(snip)

The homeowners have agreed to a settlement that requires them to pay $225,000 and have the dune restored, a report from commission staff members said. The commission will consider the settlement Feb. 8 at its meeting in Chula Vista. The money would be paid over the next three years, and the homeowners will waive their right to challenge legally the commission's decision.

(snip)

http://www.dailypilot.com/news/story/36831p-54528c.html