Encinitas OKs revised Piraeus Point amid local opposition

ENCINITAS — The Encinitas City Council approved revisions to the Piraeus Point residential development during a special meeting Wednesday night, advancing a controversial project that has faced pushback from residents over environmental and safety concerns.

The revised plan reduces the number of units from 149 to 134, including 14 deed-restricted affordable units, while increasing open space conservation by 0.9 acres. The developer also modified retaining wall heights and adjusted project waivers to exceed building height limits for rooftop elements and mechanical equipment.

The revisions stem from a settlement agreement between the city, Lennar Homes and the Endangered Habitats League, which aimed to address biological preservation concerns.

“The revised project reduces impacts to biological resources while increasing the conservation area on-site,” said project planner Esteban Danna, noting the adjustments complied with the city’s general plan and state density bonus laws.

Residents, however, voiced strong opposition, citing inadequate affordable housing, environmental degradation, and traffic impacts. Others criticized the lack of transparency in the project’s settlement process. 

Despite the concerns, the council unanimously approved the revisions, with Councilmember Bruce Ehlers absent. 

Some council members expressed disappointment over the project’s loss of participation in the Sand Compatibility and Opportunistic Use Program (SCOOP), which could have redirected construction soil to local beaches for sand replenishment.

“I thought it was a really good idea when it took place, and to see it lost by the incentive that has taken is a little bit disappointing because it is so much sediment that we could use for our beaches,” said Councilmember Kellie Hinze.

The council also approved granting a 0.96-acre easement to Lennar Homes for $1.8 million, allowing the developer to construct a biofiltration basin and access infrastructure. Residents decried the decision, arguing the land was undervalued and should remain under city control

“Here on this project, Lennar, a company that had $4 billion in profit, is asking the poor to give to the rich,” said longtime resident Fred Lara, adding the easement approval “is criminal incompetence to make such a deal.”

Lennar representatives defended the easement, emphasizing the company’s plans to reuse soil from the project on another development site, saving nearly $1 million in costs.

The council’s approvals mark the next step for the Piraeus Point project, which has been reduced in scope but remains a flashpoint in the community. City staff said the $1.8 million easement payment will go to the city’s general fund, and future discussions are expected on how to allocate the funds for local improvements.