Encinitas City Council has granted a one-year permit extension for nine existing surf schools, allowing them to continue operating at their designated beach spots through the next year. This decision comes as the council also addresses a proposed overhaul of the surf school permitting system, aiming for greater efficiency and objectivity.
Key Takeaways
- Current surf school permit holders have secured beach access for the upcoming year.
- A proposed new permitting system is being sent back for further revision.
- An ad-hoc committee, including council members and industry representatives, will be formed to refine the new process.
- Surf schools contribute to beach projects through per-student fees.
Extension Granted Amidst Process Review
The Encinitas City Council unanimously decided to extend permits for the nine current surf school permit holders, plus one that had received permission but did not utilize its spot this year. This ensures continuity for these businesses while the city revisits its approach to surf school operations on the beaches.
Overhaul of Permitting System Underway
A proposed new system designed to streamline the application process, allow for multi-year renewals, and introduce more objectivity is being sent back for further development. Council members felt the initial proposal from the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Department needed more work. To address this, an ad-hoc committee has been established, with Councilmembers Jim O’Hara and Luke Shaffer set to serve. Surfing industry representatives will also be invited to participate in the committee’s discussions.
Councilmember O’Hara suggested discarding the current scoring rubric and developing a clearer system, likening surf schools to local retail businesses that the city should support rather than burden with extensive documentation requirements like instructor education levels and business plans.
Financial Contributions and Past Issues
Surf schools currently pay Encinitas $5 per student, per day, for beach access during the peak summer season. This generates between $23,000 and $41,000 annually, with the revenue earmarked for beach-related projects. The city began reviewing its permitting system last year after state officials identified certain beach areas previously thought to be under city jurisdiction as actually being under state control. This led to the elimination of some surf school operating areas due to potential legal liability for the city.
Addressing Operational Impacts
Changes implemented last year, including adjustments to surf school locations and reduced student enrollment limits, have impacted some operators. Matthew Allen, owner of Maui Surf Academy, noted a significant reduction in his permitted student numbers, which he believes unfairly favors larger organizations over smaller businesses. Council members expressed a desire to potentially increase his student limit, possibly by enhancing lifeguard staffing, a move that aligns with the city’s upcoming budget discussions.
Sources
- Encinitas grants one-year extension to surf schools to use beach – San Diego Union-Tribune, San Diego Union-Tribune.
- Encinitas Council to vote on changes to surf schools’ permitting process – San Diego Union-Tribune, San Diego Union-Tribune.
