Members of the Lucas Valley Estates Homeowners Association filed an appeal against George Lucas's 270,000-square-foot Grady Ranch project,
"We believe that this is in the best interests of neighborhood that we represent, and in the best interests of the public at large." LVEHOA Board Member Tom Taylor said.
Challengers claim that the Grady Ranch plans were not subject to full notice and review, according to a statement issued by the LVEHOA. They contend that the project is inconsistent with zoning requirements that protect streams in the nearby area, and that the data provided by planners failed to comply with the California Environmental Quality Act.
The project, which was approved along with its environmental impact report in 1996, is in its second phase. The facility will include administration offices, an employee restaurant, a general store, a wine tasting room, screening rooms, costume storage, dressing rooms, 20 overnight employee guest suites, a basement parking garage and an outdoor stage, according to the staff report.
Although the project's supporters are excited about the new construction and high-paying jobs that Grady Ranch could bring, that is not enough for neighbors who worry about the scale and environmental impacts.
The appeal will come before the Board of Supervisors on April 3. The public hearing will begin at 1:30p.m.
“We are pleased to have the opportunity to appeal this decision to the Board of Supervisors, so that they can now be asked to review this project plan and address the legitimate needs and concerns of the public." said Liz Dale, Lucas Valley Estates Homeowners Association President.
