Editorial

State officials took an important step in the preservation of Crystal

Cove by agreeing last week to buy out developer Michael Freed, ending any

current plans for a resort at the historic beachfront community.

The $2-million deal comes on the heels of an agreement between the

state and cove residents for them to vacate the area by July 8.

With the tenants gone, the state can begin a more intensive study of

whether cottage septic tanks are leaking in the area, which has been hit

by a number of spills and continuing, mysterious leaks.

The tenants are unhappy about being removed before a clear plan for

the cove is in place. But the cause of the pollution needs to be

discovered before it permanently damages the fragile area, a known

birthing place for dolphins.

State officials have mandated the residents’ departure, and it clearly

is the right thing to do. At the same, the state parks department should

not hesitate in continuing open and public discussions about the cove’s

future.

The residents also are concerned that after they are gone the cottages

will fall into disrepair. The state, they say, has made no effort to

maintain the buildings.

But the parks department does keep up a number of notable historic

places, including the famed Donner Camp, Hearst Castle and Old Town San

Diego. In all, the department oversees 21 national historical landmarks,

of which Crystal Cove is one.

Is the cove in the pristine state of Hearst Castle? Of course not. But

its charm is due in part to the rustic, 1920s feel.

Could some of the paths and walkways be safer and more secure? Yes.

And it is up to the state, which owns the land, to make sure they are.