BREAKING NEWS

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, an agency of the Commerce Department, has scheduled a public hearing for Monday, Sept. 22 in Del Mar to receive public comments concerning an appeal of the California Coastal Commission’s rejection of the 241 Toll Road extension.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts and follows weather patterns.

The Laguna Beach City Council is on record in opposition to the toll road extension through the state park.

The Foothill/Eastern Transportation Corridor Agency is seeking to overturn the Coastal Commission, which rejected an extension of the 241 Toll Road through a portion of San Onofre State Park. Surfers and parks advocates object to the route on the grounds that it could destroy the famous Trestles surfing spot in San Diego County.

This is the second date and venue for the appeal hearing. An earlier hearing scheduled at UC Irvine was postponed because some 10,000 people were expected to turn out.

The hearing on Sept. 22 will be tightly controlled. The hearing will be held in O’Brien Hall at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar. The hearing will begin at 10:30 a.m., and continue until 8:30 p.m. Written comments may be submitted at the hearing in lieu of oral remarks.

The coastal commission’s objection to the project prevents federal agencies from issuing licenses or permits for the project, unless the Secretary of Commerce finds that the activity is either consistent with the objectives of the Coastal Zone Management Act or necessary in the interests of national security. A finding that a project satisfies either ground will result in an override of a state’s objection.

Members of the public, elected officials and individuals representing organizations or tribes may give oral testimony at the hearing.

Anyone wishing to provide oral testimony at the hearing must submit a written request no later than Sept. 12 to Thomas Street, Attorney Advisor, NOAA Office of General Counsel for Ocean Services, 1305 East-West Highway, Room 6111, Silver Spring, MD 20910.

Further guidelines and documents related to the appeal, as well as requirements for submitting a request to testify at the hearing, are available online under the “Public Resources – Administrative Records by Case” tab at www.ogc.doc.gov/czma.htm.

No late requests or requests submitted via e-mail, facsimile, or voice-mail will be considered.