Title
PLN250294 - ESALEN INSTITUTE
Administrative hearing to consider action on the installation of a test well within 750 feet of a known archaeological resource.
Project Location: 54105 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Proposed CEQA action: Find the project Categorically Exempt pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15303, and there are no exceptions pursuant to Section 15300.2
Body
RECOMMENDATIONS
It is recommended that the County of Monterey Chief of Planning adopt a resolution to:
1. Find the project exempt from CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15303, new construction, and there are no exceptions pursuant to Section 15300.2; and
2. Approve a Coastal Administrative Permit to allow construction of a test well for irrigation and Coastal Administrative Permit to allow development within 750 feet of a known archaeological resource.
The attached draft resolution includes findings and evidence for consideration (Exhibit A.1). Staff recommends approval subject to 6 conditions of approval.
PROJECT INFORMATION
Agent: Laura Lawrence
Property Owner: Esalen Institute
APN: 421-011-018-000
Parcel Size: 15.67 acres
Zoning: Watershed Scenic Conservation with a maximum gross density of forty (40) acres per unit and a Design Control Overlay in the Coastal Zone or “WSC/40-D(CZ)”
Plan Area: Big Sur Land Use Plan
Flagged and Staked: No
Project Planner: Jade Mason, Assistant Planner, (831) 755-3759, masonj@countyofmonterey.gov
SUMMARY
Staff is recommending approval of a Coastal Administrative Permit and subject to the findings and evidence in the attached Resolution (see Exhibit A), and subject to the conditions of approval attached to the Resolution. Please read these carefully and contact the planner if you have any questions. Unless otherwise noted in the conditions, the applicant will be required to satisfy all permit conditions prior to the issuance of a building/grading permits and/or commencement of the approved use.
On April 1, 2026, an administrative decision will ...
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