The Saddleback Canyons Conservancy (SCC) and the Rural Canyons Conservation Fund (RCCF) have appealed to the County Supervisors on an important item in the canyons. Friends of Harbors, Beaches & Parks (FHBP) is part of the Save the Specific Plans Coalition, under which this project falls.

The appeal hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, April 10th, 9:30 a.m., at the County Hall of Administration, Board Hearing Room, First floor, 333 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana.

Here are the details:

Despite broad opposition from canyon residents and its own staff, the Orange County Planning Commission voted January 24th to approve commercial use of an existing residence at 17521 Santiago Canyon Road. Though explicitly prohibited by the county general plan, the Silverado-Modjeska (Sil-Mod) Specific Plan, and the property’s residential zoning, the approved commercial uses include parties, wedding receptions, anniversaries, and political fund raisers with up to 200 guests per event.

Overruling neighbors’ complaints of loud noise and traffic hazards from previous events held at the house, and their own staff’s warnings that the project violates three levels of legally-binding county policies, commissioners approved the proposal anyway, promising the applicant that an initial limit of 12 events per year could be increased later.