Developer Fined for Work in Creek Bed
A prominent housing developer and one of its subcontractors will pay $20,000 in civil penalties stemming from unauthorized work done in Arroyo Conejo Creek three years ago.
Shapell Industries Inc. built three stream crossings in the creek while working on the final portion of the Rancho Conejo Village subdivision in Thousand Oaks, said Ventura County Deputy Dist. Atty. Laurel McWaters.
The company had an expired permit from the California Department of Fish and Game, and that permit never authorized work in the creek bed, McWaters said.
Christine Herdman, general counsel for Shapell, said the company admitted its error and paid the fine. The subcontractor, Turf Construction Inc., will share the cost, she said.
The proceeds will go to two nonprofit funds aimed at wildlife protection and education.
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