
The City of Solvang Violates the Law
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The Fight for Solvang's Future: Help Us Stop the Legally Defective 100-Unit Wildwood Project
The City of Solvang is moving forward with a legally defective application for the 100-unit Wildwood Project at the intersection of Alamo Pintado Road and Old Mission Drive. Despite overwhelming opposition from residents and the violation of Solvang’s General Plan, this project is being pushed through under Builder’s Remedy laws, circumventing local zoning guidelines and ignoring the very principles of responsible development. The Santa Ynez Valley Citizens Council (SYVCC)is dedicated to stopping this reckless proposal before it irrevocably changes the character and safety of our community.
A Project That Defies the Law and Common Sense
The Wildwood Project, as it stands, is not only oversized and out of place but also legally flawed. The city’s decision to modify the project application—allowing a reduction in the number of low-income units from 36 to just 13—further undermines the original intent of the General Plan. This disregard for our community's voice and the law is unacceptable.
Key issues include:
Violation of the General Plan: The application as it stands disregards Solvang’s General Plan by proposing to develop nearly the entire 5.5-acre site with far fewer low-income housing units than initially planned. The city’s decision to move forward with this project, in its current form, betrays the community’s vision for a more balanced, sustainable development.
Increased Traffic and Safety Concerns: The project is located at a notoriously congested intersection. Adding 100 units to this already dangerous spot will only exacerbate traffic, increase accidents, and hinder emergency response times, making it an even more hazardous area for both residents and visitors.
Bypassing Community Input: Solvang’s Planning Manager is fast-tracking this project, dismissing the concerns and opposition of residents who are overwhelmingly against this reckless development. The city has not properly engaged the community, undermining the principles of democracy and fairness.
Why This Fight Matters
This fight isn’t against development—it’s for responsible development that respects Solvang’s General Plan, prioritizes community safety, and maintains the unique character that makes Solvang a special place to live. We believe in thoughtful, well-planned growth that keeps our community’s values intact and ensures that future generations can enjoy the same vibrant, sustainable environment we do today.
This battle goes beyond the Wildwood Project. It’s about ensuring that Solvang remains a place where community comes first, where safety, sustainability, and the preservation of our town’s historic charm are prioritized over unchecked, overzealous development.
How Your Contributions Help
Your generous support allows us to continue our fight against this flawed and dangerous proposal. The funds you donate will directly support the following critical efforts:
Legal Assistance: We continue to work with our excellent legal team to hold the City accountable for approving a project that violates both the General Plan and the law. Legal fees are essential as we seek justice for our community.
Traffic and Safety Analysts: Expert analysis is needed to demonstrate how this project will negatively affect traffic, safety, and the overall well-being of Solvang residents. Your donations will help us gather the data needed to make a compelling case.
Community Outreach and Advocacy: We are committed to amplifying the voices of residents who oppose this project. With your help, we can organize community meetings, awareness campaigns, and other outreach efforts to apply pressure on the City to act responsibly.
Together, We Can Protect Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley
This is a pivotal moment for Solvang. If we do not act, the Wildwood Project will forever alter our town, jeopardizing safety, increasing congestion, and threatening the very character that makes Solvang one of the most desirable communities in California. Your support is crucial in making sure that this project, in its current form, does not proceed.
Please donate today to help us continue this fight. Every dollar you contribute brings us one step closer to ensuring that Solvang’s future remains in the hands of the people who live here—not developers or bureaucrats pushing through ill-conceived projects.
Suggested Donation Levels:
$25: Advocate for Accountability
$50: Supporter of Responsible Growth
$100: Champion of Community Values
$500+: Defender of Solvang’s Future
We are counting on you to stand with us in the fight to protect Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley. Together, we can ensure that Solvang remains a safe, sustainable, and law-abiding community.
Thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
The Santa Ynez Valley Citizens Council
Fundraising team: Fundraiser Team (3)

Brian Carrillo
Organizer
Solvang, CA
Craig Kent
Team member
Katie Kusske
Team member
MICHELLE NEELS
Team member