In a rare turn of events, the application by the SeaRidge Condominiums in Depoe Bay for a massive riprap revetment will receive a public hearing through a “Director’s Initiative.” Hearings on shoreline armoring permit cases happen seldom, and when they do, it is ordinarily because ten or more citizens demanded one. The fact that the hearing is instead taking place at the initiative of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) staff indicates an unusual level of scrutiny.

A virtual public hearing (via Zoom) will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 14, to take public testimony on Ocean Shore Alteration Application number 3051 to add a riprap revetment west of SeaRidge Condominiums. The massive structure would occupy 600 feet of shoreline, standing 24 feet high and 42 feet wide.

Oregon Shores commented in opposition to this application, but we were surprised that instead of making a decision, OPRD staff scheduled a hearing. They stated, “Following OPRD’s initial evaluation of this application, it is not clear whether the proposal meets the applicable review standards. The Department must ‘determine if the granting of such permit would in any way be detrimental to the interests and safety of the public and to the preservation of the natural resource, scenic, recreational and economic values of the ocean shore’ in accordance with state regulations.

This hearing is for the purpose of further developing a factual basis for a permit decision based on the review standards, including whether the application demonstrates:

  • There are no reasonable alternatives to the proposed design or construction methods that would better protect the ocean shore, including recreation, scenic, and natural resources;
  • The proposed project was designed to avoid and minimize damage to, and retain the scenic attraction of, the known ancient forest remnants at the site;
  • The project avoids impact to properties not owned by the applicant, unless agreed to by the landowner.

Anyone wishing to testify at the hearing must pre-register. Each individual will be provided up to three minutes to testify. Register to testify here.

Written by: Phillip Johnson, Shoreline and Land Use Manager

Photo: Erosion at the SeaRidge Condominiums, by Loren Nelson

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