Feud Over Volleyball Contests Goes Before Coastal Panel

By TRACY JOHNSON

Jan. 9, 1997 12 AM PT

A grass-roots group of Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach residents told members of the California Coastal Commission on Wednesday that the growing number of beach events held in their cities is limiting public access and creating a parking nightmare for residents and visitors.

The group, headed by Hermosa Beach resident Donley Falkenstein, has been feuding with city officials since the Assn. of Volleyball Professionals sponsored tournaments in both cities last summer.

The group protested at the events because the volleyball courts were fenced off and admission was charged for seating that had been free.

Falkenstein argued Wednesday that during the summer months the 20 events held at the two beaches attract more people than the cities can accommodate. He said that the crowds created a parking problem and that the beaches are congested because the events take up so much space.

“It gets so crowded that it’s like trying to put an elephant on a dime,” said Falkenstein.

To alleviate congestion AVP spokesman John Stevenson said that the promoter plans to offer a shuttle services during events this summer. He added that instead of erecting barriers, the AVP will instead leave the tournament area open so that beach goers can pass through more easily.

“We’re just trying to run a professional sporting event,” Stevenson said. “We will try to do it in a way that will leave the beach accessible and a view that can be seen at all times.”

Members of the commission, which approves many of the permits issued for beach events, were divided on the issue and agreed to review photographs of the crowds and letters submitted by the group.

Some argued that the issue should be taken up by local governments because congestion and parking were the biggest concerns. Others said local government was not responding to the concerns of its residents and argued that the commission should get involved.

“Things have clearly gotten out of hand and its time for us to step in,” said commissioner Sara Wan.