Dear supporters,
Thank you for standing with us to protect the Environmental Nature Center (ENC) and its preschool from incompatible development. Your voices and signatures have already made a powerful impact.
We wanted to share an important update following today’s Newport Beach City Council meeting—and a quick media highlight.
What happened:
The City Council voted not to agendize the removal of 1501 E. 16th Street from the Housing Opportunity Sites Overlay. This was a disappointing outcome, especially given the overwhelming community support.
Why?
Earlier today, the new property owner sent a letter to the City threatening legal action if the site were rezoned. In light of that, the Council chose not to proceed with the agenda item—for now.
We were featured in the OC Register!
Our effort was covered in today’s Orange County Register article highlighting our community’s concerns, the importance of the ENC, and why we’re continuing to fight for this space. Thank you to everyone who has spoken up—you’re being heard.
Where we are now:
Although no formal development application has been submitted, the City has confirmed that they are aware of a proposed project for the site. That means we are in a narrow but critical window to organize, raise concerns, and build support before anything moves forward officially.
What we can still do:
Under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) any proposed development must undergo environmental review. This site—bordering a preschool and nature preserve—is one of the most sensitive in Newport Beach.
We can raise serious concerns, including:
- Air pollution including asbestos and construction dust
- Noise impacts on young children and outdoor learning
- Traffic and pedestrian safety risks
- Loss of tree canopy and habitat
- Privacy and visual intrusion from multi-story buildings
- Harm to a space that serves 26,000 students a year
If these issues are raised early and clearly, the City may be required to complete a full Environmental Impact Report (EIR)—which can delay, reshape, or even halt the project.
Next steps:
We’ll keep you informed as soon as any application is filed or public comment period opens. In the meantime, here’s how you can help:
1. Share the petition with anyone in the Newport Beach area.
2. Stay informed —we’ll keep updates coming as the process unfolds.
3. Email me directly at katiemarienthal@gmail.com ifif you'd like to be part of strategy meetings or have relevant expertise in environmental law, education, or media.
Thank you again for standing with us.
This isn’t just about one parcel—it’s about protecting nature, childhood, and education in our community.
With gratitude,
Katie Marienthal Smith
on behalf of the ENC Preservation Team