From: carole rauchle
To: City Council
Subject: Council Hearing on the Future of the Chapman Estate Date: Tuesday,February 11,2025 12:59:35 PM
I retired to Pismo Beach in 2020 and have enjoyed living here. The geographic environment, including our hills and sea shores, is incredible. As you are aware based upon tourist traffic drawn to this area that others are aware of this as well.
In order to get to know the community more as a resident I inquired about landmarks that might need volunteer assistance. The Chapman Estate was immediately recommended. Every event I have participated in has been a joy to attend. That is because the participants of the events—be it birthdays,family reunions, neighborhood celebrations, etc. Probably the most poignant for me was a "Thank You" celebration by a severely injured firefighter to thank his family,friends and supporters for getting him through major medical challenges.
What has stood our the most for me?
It's stunning architecture—there is nothing else like it in the area.
The views are incredible. It is joyful to watch event attendees shout when they see the whales migrating from the back veranda. And when the begonias are in bloom,the OOHS and AAHS are lovely to hear.
Understanding that here are stunning and valuable antiques in the main house, many attendees inquire on when the house will open so they can be seen. And how many windmills can you see in Pismo Beach—only one on the estate.
This history of the families who have owned it and the generosity of Mr. Chapman and Mr.
Shidler who donated it to the city with the understanding that it would be cared for as diligently as they did. The city's own 2013 assessment recognized the estate's significance and recommended preservation efforts.
I have volunteered at many events at the Estate. Through these events I have gotten to know several board members. The current board dedicates many hours to maintaining the estate for others in the community to enjoy. They proactively reach out to the Shell Beach Community to confirm that their efforts are in alignment. Their fundraising events excel in securing not only money but participant enthusiasm about keeping the estate open for the public. And I know under their leadership, proper stewardship of the Estate will be ensured.
The estate aligns with Pismo Beach's goals of preserving coastal access, enhancing tourism, and investing in community spaces. In conclusion, the Chapman Estate is a community landmark that should remain open for public enjoyment.
Those of us who appreciate the Chapman Estate look forward to a positive outcome from the hearing