The California town of Solvang is experiencing significant opposition regarding a proposed glamping resort from developer Ed St. George, who is currently involved in a legal dispute with the town over another hotel project. The controversy began on August 20 when the Solvang Design Review Committee met to discuss a pre-application for St. George's proposed resort, which would feature 31 Airstream campers on a 2.19-acre site near downtown.
St. George has previously drawn criticism for his acquisition of various properties in the Central Coast area, including the well-known tourist site Pea Soup Andersen’s, which is set to be replaced by a luxury condominium project. Tensions between St. George and Solvang escalated following a stop work order on his downtown hotel project, leading to a lawsuit against the city.
During the Design Review Committee meeting, concerns were raised about a proposed lookout tower at the glamping site, which some residents felt would intrude on the neighborhood. Committee member Melissa Bates expressed strong opposition, comparing the tower to a “gulag.”
The proposed glamping resort site is located within the Mission Design District, where developments are expected to adhere to Spanish Colonial Revival architectural standards to align with the historic Old Mission Santa Ines. City staff advised St. George's team to improve compliance with these standards. Residents also voiced concerns about the compatibility of the mid-century Airstream campers with the district's architectural style.
Resident Susan Belloni questioned the appropriateness of the campers, stating that they do not align with Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. Another resident, Dennis Beebe, remarked that the appearance of the site could resemble a trailer park. The proposal is not yet finalized; St. George has been instructed to revise the plans and return for a second pre-application review.