CARMEL VALLEY ASSOCIATION

Carmel Valley News & Updates

Protect Carmel Valley Village.

Defend Public Safety.

Say NO to the proposed Airfield Project!

For over 75 years, the Carmel Valley Association (CVA) has worked to preserve and protect the natural beauty, resources, and rural character of Carmel Valley. That mission, and our tools to accomplish it, are now being tested in unprecedented ways.

A proposal by local developer Patrick Orosco would bring a 90-unit development to the historical Carmel Valley Airfield—nearly four times the 24 units allowed under the Carmel Valley Master Plan. This massively inconsistent project is being advanced under the State’s Builder’s Remedy, which temporarily overrides local zoning and planning rules until the County’s housing plan is approved.

If built as proposed, this project would fundamentally reshape Carmel Valley Village and potentially introduce serious, unresolved risks to public health and safety, created by:

●     Unverified and potentially insufficient water supply

●     Septic and drainage constraints in an area with known limitations

●     Wildfire evacuation limitations on already constrained roadways

At a well-attended public meeting hosted by CVA on March 18, residents raised these concerns clearly and consistently to Mr. Orosco. Based on the project’s scale, density, and risks, CVA cannot support the proposal as currently designed.

What Happens Next Matters 

Under State law, the most effective path to influencing—or stopping—this ill-conceived project is through the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). That means demonstrating, with credible evidence, that the project fails to meet objective public health and safety standards.

Doing this right, and winning, requires independent technical and legal experts, detailed environmental review of CEQA documents, and, if necessary, legal action.

Our Goal: Raise $100,000

 Your CVA is leading this effort in coordination with Friends of the Village Airfield (FOVA) and the broader community. To be effective, we must be more than just angry or concerned, we must be prepared—and that requires resources.

We are seeking to raise $100,000 to fund:

●     Independent technical analysis (water, wastewater, traffic, wildfire risk)

●     CEQA review and expert input

●     Legal advice and support, if necessary, to ensure compliance with the law

CVA is a volunteer-led organization with no paid staff. Funds donated to the CV Airfield Defense Fund will be used directly to support this effort, with limited expenses for coordination and communications.

Make the Difference in this Fight: Contribute to CVA

 Your contribution will help ensure that:

●     The project is rigorously and independently evaluated

●     Real risks are identified and addressed

●     The community has a credible, fact-based voice that cannot be dismissed in this process

We are committed to working constructively with all parties—including the developer—to explore alternative solutions that respect Carmel Valley’s character and protect the public health, safety, and the integrity of this community.

CVA is a 501(c)(4) organization. Contributions are not tax-deductible. Any unexpended funds in this effort will be used to advance CVA’s mission of protecting Carmel Valley’s beauty and rural character.

Working Together for a Thriving Valley

Volunteers protecting Carmel Valley’s lands, waters, and way of life through collaboration, advocacy, and care.

Carmel Valley Association is one of the oldest, largest, and most successful all-volunteer community organizations in Monterey County. Our mission: To preserve, protect, and defend the natural beauty, resources, and rural character of the Carmel Valley. We accomplish this ever-present goal by working with residents, businesses, and government to plan and manage important human uses, ecosystems, and cultural values that sustain them

A Legacy of Stewardship

From farmland to future generations —

the story of Carmel Valley’s fight to stay rural, beautiful, and alive.

Carmel Valley Association has worked since 1949 to protect the Valley’s natural beauty, rural character, and quality of life. This short film, created by member Richard Cheatham, traces its history of community action, from early preservation efforts to today’s challenges of growth, traffic, and environmental stewardship.

Caring for the Valley We Call Home

Where community voices shape local action.

The Carmel Valley Association stays at the forefront of issues that affect our community — guiding responsible development, protecting open spaces, improving safety, and advocating for fair, transparent policies.



Through collaboration with residents, local leaders, and planners, we work to preserve the Valley’s beauty, livability, and rural spirit for generations to come.

Bringing Neighbors Together

Celebrating community, connection, and the Carmel Valley way of life.

Throughout the year, the Carmel Valley Association hosts events that bring residents together to connect, learn, and celebrate our shared sense of place. From annual picnics and themed gatherings to informative town meetings and environmental workshops, each event strengthens community ties and honors the Valley we all call home.