This public letter was contributed by Michael Brigantino. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent BenitoLink or other affiliated contributors. Lea este artÃculo en español aquÃ.
We need your urgent attention.
San Benito County is proposing sweeping zoning ordinance changes that will go before the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, June 10th*. These changes will have far-reaching consequences for property owners, particularly those with agricultural and rural land.
*Corrected error on the day of week the meeting was set. Meeting is Tues. June 10.
What’s being proposed?
The county is looking to dramatically increase the minimum lot sizes required for parcel splits*:
- Agricultural Rangeland: from 40 acres to 160 acres
- Agricultural Productive: from 5 acres to 20 acres
Why this matters:
Immediate Property Devaluation
These changes could instantly strip away significant land value. Many landowners have relied on the land utility as a financial resource—for family estate planning, agricultural operations, or conservation easements. This value would be lost overnight.
Loss of Rights
This will severely limit flexibility and reduce the marketability of agricultural and rural properties.
Undermines Conservation Tools
Conservation easements, which are often based on subdivision potential, will become financially unworkable. This weakens a key voluntary tool to preserve open space and agricultural land.
Farmers and Landowners Will Lose Financing Tools*
Farmers and Landowners depend on their land’s appraised value to secure operating loans and financing needed to sustain their businesses. Lower property values mean less equity to borrow against.
No Meaningful Public Input*
Unlike prior major land use proposals, the public has not had the opportunity to study it and give meaningful input. It’s being quietly implemented through the zoning code.
Sets a Dangerous Precedent
Downzoning without compensation or consent is a regulatory taking. It sends a clear message that property rights are not protected in San Benito County.
What you can do:
Please show up and speak out at the Board of Supervisors meeting on June 10th. If this change affects you, your family, or your future—your voice matters now more than ever.
When:Â Tuesday, June 10, 2025*
Where: San Benito County Board of Supervisors Chambers
Time: 9:00 A.M.
Read the proposed zoning changes here:
Click Here to Read the Proposed Zoning Changes
Let’s stand together to protect landowners, farmers, and our local economy. Any change this drastic should have meaningful public input and an economic impact study.
Respectfully,
Michael Brigantino
Concerned Landowner & Advocate
*Editor’s Note: Minor corrections made by author 6/2/25 in these sections.
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