Debate heats up between a Capitola beach and coastal commission

The debate continues over Opal Cliffs Neighborhood Beach in Capitola. For years the beach also known as Privates, has been surrounded by a locked gate. But for $100 a year anyone can get inside.

“It’s the same as national parks or even a community pool. State parks up and down the state charge $10 for access per day up to $25,” said attorney Mark Massara.

Massara is representing the Opal Cliffs Recreation District. On Tuesday, the district met after meeting with the California Coastal Commission last week. Massara said district leaders want to keep the gate locked but are willing to work with the commission on a solution.

“I can appreciate the fact that the coastal commission wants to be able to make all of the determinations itself, but it really would be beneficial for the community, as well as the district, if we could all participate in that conversation,” said Massara.

The commission said the beach is public property and has ordered the fence and gate be removed.

“This is a public agency, beach access should be for everybody, not just for the lucky few who can live along the coast,” said Pat Veesart with the coastal commission.

The commission has threatened big fines if the fence doesn’t come down, but both sides hope it doesn’t come to that.

“Everything is on the table but what we want is for the public to be able to get to the beach,” said Veesart.

The district will be meeting with the county next week. Neighbors have also started a petition to keep the beach gated.

“Opal Cliffs Park is confident that we can continue a long history of providing affordable, safe, family-friendly access and that’s what the district intends to do,” said Massara.