Montecito’s All Saints by-the-Sea Episcopal Church Receives Historic Landmark Designation

In a unanimous decision, the Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors recently declared All Saints by-the-Sea Episcopal Church a historic landmark. This declaration came during a vote last Tuesday, where the application for the designation was approved 5-0, sparking celebrations among the congregation and local residents.

Historically rich and architecturally unique, the church located at 83 Eucalyptus Lane, is a gem from the turn of the 20th century. Built in 1900, it showcases a blend of architectural styles from that era, warranting attention and respect for its historical value and aesthetic appeal. Arthur Burnett Benton, a renowned architect of his time, is credited with the church’s design, further enhancing its significance as a piece of architectural heritage.

The decision to nominate All Saints by-the-Sea Episcopal Church came after the Historic Landmarks Advisory Commission (HLAC) reviewed its qualifications in September, finding it met the criteria for landmark status. Keith Coffman-Grey, HLAC chair, emphasized that the commission believed the nomination was in full accordance with the code, highlighting the structure’s undeniable historical and cultural value.

However, the landmark designation process was not without its debates. Public comments raised concerns, particularly regarding the church’s picturesque views of the Santa Ynez Mountains. These views, considered by some as integral to the church’s historical significance, were contested. Amber Long, representing All Saints through Long Historic Preservation Services, argued for the inclusion of the views as part of the church’s landmark status. Despite her plea and the HLAC’s initial decision, which included the mountain vistas, the resolution passed by the Board of Supervisors did not encompass this aspect due to a documentation oversight.

The controversy around the views also saw opposition from representatives of Miramar Acquisition, who argued that the scenic vistas did not qualify under county code for landmark designation criteria, suggesting such an inclusion served a selective interest rather than a public benefit.

In light of proposed developments by Rosewood Miramar Beach hotel owner Rick Caruso, which would alter the surrounding landscape and potentially obstruct the church’s mountain views, community members and church leaders have expressed concerns about losing a beloved part of their visual and spiritual landscape.

Supervisor Das Williams, along with the rest of the board, showed support for the church’s designation but echoed sentiments against regulating views as part of the landmark status, pointing to potential complications and precedents that could arise from such a move.

Board Chair Steve Lavagnino expressed regret over the contention surrounding the resolution, lamenting how landmark processes can sometimes become “weaponized.” While acknowledging the church’s beauty and historical value, he cautioned against entangling landmark designations with viewshed regulations, which he described as a “sticky wicket.”

Despite the debates over view inclusion, the designation as a historic landmark represents a triumphant milestone for All Saints by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, ensuring its preservation and recognition as a significant cultural and architectural treasure in Montecito.