Wealthy entrepreneur from Monaco expresses plans to withdraw from Carmel-by-the-Sea, describing it as an 'unusual' or 'peculiar' community.
In the picturesque town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, Monaco billionaire Patrice Pastor is facing opposition and delays in his development projects. The town's strict zoning regulations and community resistance, coupled with political maneuvers and procedural delays, have left Pastor frustrated and considering pulling out of the town.
- Zoning Regulations and Community Character
Carmel-by-the-Sea prides itself on preserving its small-town aesthetic, with low-rise architecture, a lack of visible streetlights, and house numbers. This character has made it challenging for large-scale developments like Pastor's projects to gain approval[2][3].
- Parking and Infrastructure Concerns
One of the main objections to Pastor's JB Pastor project, a mixed-use residential and commercial development, is the perceived lack of adequate parking. This issue has been a significant point of contention among residents[1][3][4].
- Environmental and Architectural Impact
Critics argue that Pastor's projects could exceed what Carmel can sustain environmentally and architecturally. There are concerns about the projects' consistency with the town's architectural style and their potential impact on the local environment[3][4].
- Political Resistance
Despite legal approvals, Pastor has faced political resistance from some residents, with claims of preferential treatment for his projects. This resistance has led to delays and the need for multiple redesigns to align with community expectations[1][3].
- Procedural Dysfunction
Pastor has expressed frustration with the procedural delays and what he perceives as unfair opposition. This has led him to reconsider his investment in Carmel, suggesting that the community's resistance may outweigh any legal approvals[2][3].
The latest opposition to Pastor's JB Pastor development may have been the final straw, leading him to consider fully pulling out of Carmel-by-the-Sea. However, it remains unclear if Pastor means "leaving" the town by halting ongoing projects or selling his properties[5].
The group of appellants believes that the project has to play by the rules and is not opposed to it[6]. Tim Allen, a real estate agent who has handled most of Pastor's local purchases, stated that Pastor is weighing his options and hopes the town rallies around him or he may leave[7].
Pastor, who has spent over $100 million on properties in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur, owns several notable establishments in the town, including The Hog's Breath Building, once owned by actor and former Carmel-by-the-Sea mayor Clint Eastwood, and the L'Auberge Carmel hotel, which houses a Michelin-star restaurant[8][9].
In April, Pastor submitted plans for a 12,971-square-foot, two-story complex with eight upstairs apartments, retail space, and a dozen parking spaces. However, these plans are still outside the guidelines and rules of Carmel-by-the-Sea's city codes[10].
The City Council of Carmel-by-the-Sea has rejected several of Pastor's design proposals, leading to delays and repeated redesigns. The most recent delay occurred during a six-hour City Council meeting, where the Council decided to delay making a decision on the appeal[11].
Ian Martin, one of the appellants, stated that the push-back against Pastor's projects is not personal and that longtime locals also go through the same long process[12]. Courtney Kramer, another appellant, expressed frustration during a City Council meeting that certain projects get a pass while residents who have followed the rules face excruciating renovation projects[13].
As the situation unfolds, it is clear that Pastor's projects have sparked controversy and debate in the community. Whether Pastor decides to stay or leave, his impact on Carmel-by-the-Sea will be significant.
- The JB Pastor project, a proposed mixed-use development, has been met with criticism in Carmel-by-the-Sea due to perceived inadequate parking, concerns about environmental and architectural impact, and opposition to large-scale developments that may alter the town's character.
- In the town's ongoing debate over development, real estate mogul Patrice Pastor's projects have stirred support and resistance from community members. Some residents argue that Pastor's developments do not align with zoning regulations, while others assert that he receives preferential treatment.
- As the City Council of Carmel-by-the-Sea continues to review Pastor's plans for a new complex, opinions differ among residents. Some approve of the project as long as it adheres to city codes, while others believe it should be rejected for its potential negative impacts on the town's infrastructure and aesthetic.
- Sports businessman Patrice Pastor, who owns multiple establishments in Carmel-by-the-Sea, has expressed frustration with procedural delays and political resistance in his development endeavors. His frustration has led him to consider pulling out of the town, potentially impacting Carmel's real estate market.
