As we move into the heart of spring, the pulse of Laguna Beach governance is quickening. Several key issues are coming to a head that directly impact our South Laguna micro-communities.
From wildfire resilience to the long-term stewardship of our canyons, here is what is currently on the “State of Laguna” radar.
1. Wildfire Resilience: The Goat-Grazed Front Line
With the Environmental Sustainability Committee meeting on March 16th, the city is doubling down on its “Ready, Set, Go” initiatives.
- What’s happening: The council is reviewing the effectiveness of recent vegetation management projects—specifically the expanded goat-grazing perimeter bordering Arch Beach Heights.
- The So Laguna Angle: For those in Coast Royal and Upper Victoria, we are looking for updates on “home hardening” grants and the status of local Firewise USA® certifications.
📍 View Restoration
Are your ocean views being obstructed by overgrown foliage? The View Restoration Committee meets regularly to mediate disputes and process restoration applications. Check the View Restoration Guidelines to see if your property qualifies for a claim.
This is a critical issue for property values in Coast Royal, Temple Hills, and Mystic Hills.
2. The Village Heritage & Design Review
The Design Review Board (March 12th & 26th) and the Heritage Committee (March 16th) have heavy agendas this month.
- What’s happening: There is a surge in applications for significant remodels in the North Village. The Heritage Committee is focused on ensuring that the “human scale” of our original 1920s cottages isn’t lost.
- The So Laguna Angle: We are watching these decisions closely as a bellwether for how the city might handle future development in Woods Cove and South Laguna Village.
3. Strategic Planning & Infrastructure
Following the Annual Strategic Planning Workshop, the council is beginning to allocate funds for the next fiscal cycle.
- What’s happening: A major focus of the March 24th Regular City Council Meeting will be the Facilities Master Plan.
- The So Laguna Angle: Advocacy efforts are focused on ensuring Aliso Beach receives its fair share of maintenance funding, specifically regarding the stabilization of aging beach stairs and tidepool protection.
4. Housing & Human Services
On March 25th, the Housing and Human Services Committee will tackle local-serving housing challenges.
- What’s happening: Discussion is centered on the 340 St. Anns Drive project and broader community land trust initiatives.
- The So Laguna Angle: We believe that for a neighborhood to stay a “village,” the people who work here—our teachers, artists, and first responders—must be able to live here.
How to Get Involved
The most important meeting on the horizon is the Regular City Council Meeting on March 24, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
So Laguna Tip: If you can’t make it to City Hall, you can watch the Live Stream via the City Portal or the City’s YouTube channel.
Never Miss a Decision
Laguna moves fast, and the decisions made at City Hall directly impact our property values and neighborhood character. Visit our Meeting Tracker for a comprehensive view of upcoming agendas, specialized committee sessions, and live-stream links. Stay informed, stay involved, and help us shape the future of So Laguna.
Learn about the Laguna Beach Goat Grazing Program
How many goats are in the herd?
The city typically utilizes a herd of roughly 200 to 400 Peruvian goats. They are highly efficient, capable of clearing an acre of dense brush in just a few days.
Where is the herd right now?
As of mid-March 2026, the goats are currently concentrated on the northern perimeter, specifically managing the fuel modification zones around Emerald Bay and Smithcliffs. This area is a high-priority “intermix” zone where the wildland meets one of our most significant gated communities.
Can I pet the goats while hiking?
For the safety of the herd and the guardian dogs, residents are asked to keep their distance.
Are they protected from local predators?
Yes. The herd is managed by professional handlers and protected by trained livestock guardian dogs (often Great Pyrenees or Akbash) that stay with the goats 24/7 to deter coyotes and mountain lions.
