Ursula Judkins

Ocean Star LLC purchased the historic Admirals House in 2013 and submitted their application for a conditional use permit to develop two five-bedroom homes, 12-vehicle parking, and an Olympic pool, on the steep slope in front of the southern boundary of UJV. Until the Magnolia community became involved, access to the north side of the Oceanstar development was originally proposed through Ursula Judkins Viewpoint Park from West Galer Street crossing in a southeastern direction toward the historic Admiral's House.

MCC and members of the Magnolia Community, have spearheaded two key litigation efforts to stop the construction that would block the park’s view. Ted and Jeanne Coulson, Magnolia Community members, have made significant investments and worked tirelessly to fight Ocean Star LLC’s plans and protect UJV. On December 20, 2022, the hearing examiner affirmed SDCI's August 8, 2022 revised decision approving Oceanstar's application. MCC, in partnership with the Coulsons, decided that further litigation efforts were not sustainable. While this was not the desired outcome, MCC is proud of the achievements gained through the participation of the appeals. SDCI originally approved Oceanstar’s application without any acknowledgement or consideration of the public interest in the project’s adverse impacts of the UJV view and no protection for the view. Here is a depiction based on Oceanstar’s rendering in the approved plans of the UJV view after construction of the buildings. Oceanstar submitted revised plans, moving the offending trees and replacing them with a yew hedge buffer, and adding a plan note that requires the hedge not to exceed 6’ and to be trimmed annually to 5’6”.  Oceanstar depicted the future view from UJV in their plans.

Magnolia Community Council is organizing an effort to further enhance Ursula Judkins Viewpoint Park and protect our park for generations to come. If you would like to get involved, please reach out to MCC or donate here.