Beachgoers Win in Coastal Commission Dispute
Beachgoers could benefit greatly from a dispute between the California Coastal Commission and Mark Attanasio, owner of the Milwaukee Brewers. In 2024, Attanasio’s construction team used excavators to remove sand from Broad Beach, affecting his beachfront development. This led to a lawsuit and an investigation by the Coastal Commission.
The investigation found that the excavation, done without permits, harmed sensitive habitats. It also noted that Attanasio’s project hindered public beach access.
The proposed resolution stands out: Instead of paying a fine, Attanasio will donate a $2-million oceanfront parcel for public preservation, according to the Coastal Commission.
The agreement awaits a vote from the Coastal Commission, scheduled for Thursday. Kenneth Ehrlich, Attanasio’s attorney, plans to comment on the deal after approval. Lisa Haage, the Coastal Commission’s Chief of Enforcement, expressed excitement about dedicating land to the public, noting challenges in opening beach access in Malibu.
While property donations are sometimes part of settlements, Haage mentioned this as a first for Malibu, known for land scarcity and frequent fines for obstructing beach access. She believes this donation is a better solution than monetary settlements that are often unused.
Attanasio’s mansion is on Broad Beach, but the donated parcel is located 14 miles east near Big Rock Beach. Currently, he’s under contract to purchase the property and aims to donate it to a public agency upon closing.
The property measures 5,135 square feet with 70 feet of beachfront. It used to house a three-unit building destroyed in the Palisades fire. Plans for its recreational use will be determined after donation.
Robert Moddelmog, enforcement counsel for the Coastal Commission, remarked that acquiring new lots in eastern Malibu has been challenging due to densely packed homes.
As part of the resolution, Attanasio agreed to return the sand and restore the beach. Moddelmog noted that the excavation left a significant hole in the rocky intertidal zone, affecting species like fish and sea stars.
Preservation in Broad Beach, home to celebrities and wealthy individuals, has become crucial. The beach has faced storm damage and sand depletion over the years. In 2015, residents like Dustin Hoffman and Pierce Brosnan committed $31 million towards sand restoration.