Dozens protest development within San Marcos Foothills Preserve

SANTA BARBARA CO, Calif. - More than 30 people gathered Saturday morning at the main trailhead gate leading into the San Marcos Foothills Preserve above Foothill Road to protest the development of nearly a dozen homes.

Many in the group signed a growing petition opposing pending development of roughly 25 acres in the pristine setting. Following a Chumash blessing by Peter Olmos, the group marched down Via Gaitero with homemade signs with messages opposing development.

Local environmentalists said they've raised $1.3 million dollars in an effort to buy the land back from the current owner and developer, Chadmar Group, before ground is broken for the ten homes. The actual land value is currently under negotiations.

NewsChannel reached out to a Chadmar Group spokesman to inquire about a timeline and groundbreaking date but has not heard back.