On August 13, 2024, the Laguna Beach City Council established the Laguna Beach Stewardship and Visitor Impact Ad Hoc Committee. This initiative is led by Mayor Sue Kempf and Councilmember Orgill and aims to develop a Local Stewardship Action Plan focused on preserving Laguna Beach’s unique environment, culture, and heritage.

The committee is dedicated to addressing three core objectives:

• Environmental Preservation: Safeguarding Laguna Beach’s natural environment to ensure that tourism does not harm our ecosystems.
• Cultural and Heritage Preservation: Protecting and enhancing Laguna Beach’s cultural and historical assets, including its artistic legacy, local events, and iconic landmarks.
• Visitor Impact Management: Managing visitor effects by tackling issues like overcrowding and promoting responsible tourism that aligns with community values.

Tourism plays a crucial role in Laguna Beach’s economy. However, concerns regarding its impact on the community, city, beaches, and environment have highlighted the need for a more strategic approach. This initiative responds to calls for changes in how Laguna Beach is represented by Visit Laguna, aiming to balance promotional activities with preservation efforts.

The Stewardship Program will be developed with a community-informed approach to protect Laguna Beach’s environmental, cultural, and aesthetic qualities while managing tourism growth. An advisory panel of local leaders will provide essential input to shape the strategy and ensure alignment with community values.

The strategies under the Laguna Beach Stewardship Program are designed to benefit both residents and visitors, ensuring the long-term enjoyment and preservation of Laguna Beach. The committee invites input and feedback from the community to support a balanced approach to tourism that reflects shared values and priorities.