Laguna Beach Heritage Committee - April 20, 2026

April 20, 2026

Executive Summary

- The Environmental Sustainability Committee of Laguna Beach held its meeting on May 18, 2026, at the Laguna Room in the Susi Q Center. - The committee conducted a roll call with Committee Members Fink, Yerko, Stordahl, Vice Chair Drucker, and Chair Henry all present. - The primary focus was a special presentation on a city-initiated historic preservation project addressing 54 properties identified on the historic register that were missing historic preservation agreements. - Planning Manager Mark Orgill and consultant Shannon Davis from ASM Affiliates presented findings from extensive research including review of municipal code, Mills Act agreements, building permits, and county deed records. - The research revealed that preservation agreements were not required until a 2006 ordinance change, explaining why many pre-2006 designated properties lacked such agreements. - Of the 54 properties reviewed, 25 can remain designated without agreements (pre-2006 designations with integrity), 7 can remain with new agreements (post-2006 with integrity), 15 require reconsideration, and 6 require administrative processing for removal. - The committee unanimously recommended approval for placemen

Key Decisions

- Approved placement of 570 Brooks Street on the city's local historic register based on meeting criteria 1 (voluntary placement), 3 (exemplifies heritage), 5 (notable builder), and 6 (distinguishing architectural characteristics). Vote: 5-0 (Committee Members Fink, Yerko, Stordahl, Vice Chair Drucker, Chair Henry all voting yes). - Elected Justin (last name not specified) to remain as Vice Chair for another term. Vote: 5-0 (Committee Members Fink, Yerko, Stordahl, Vice Chair Drucker, Chair Henry all voting yes). - Agreed to proceed with Heritage Month kickoff event at the Lumberyard small pat