Case Overview
- Case: Montecito Country Club, LLC vs. Kevin and Jeannette Root (Case No. 21CV02227)
- Court: Santa Barbara Superior Court, Judge Donna Geck
- Ruling (July 30, 2024): The court upheld the 1977 easement, ordering the Roots to remove unauthorized landscaping (hedgerows, retaining wall, plantings) and restore the easement area at their own expense, with costs estimated at $25,000–$50,000. The court retains jurisdiction to ensure compliance.
Recent Updates (as of April 22, 2025)
- Compliance Status: No public confirmation exists on whether the Roots have fully restored the easement area as mandated. Restoration work was underway in August 2024, but progress updates are unavailable.
- Appeal Status: No documentation confirms an appeal filing within the 60-day window (ended ~September 28, 2024). Speculation persists among local attorneys that the Roots may consider an appeal due to financial burdens, but no action is verified.
- Court Oversight: Judge Geck’s ongoing jurisdiction suggests the court is monitoring restoration, but no reports indicate completion or closure of oversight.
- Community Impact: Discussions on X and local media reflect continued interest, with polarized views on easement enforcement versus homeowner rights. No new developments have shifted this narrative since April 20, 2025.
Next Steps for Updates
- Court Records: Check the Santa Barbara Superior Court portal for case filings or contact the court clerk.
- Local News: Monitor Montecito Journal, Santa Barbara Independent, or Noozhawk for breaking news.
- X Engagement: Use #MontecitoEasement to gather community insights or observe restoration progress at 1059 Summit Road.
Key Takeaway
The Montecito Country Club easement dispute remains unresolved in terms of public updates, with no new court actions or compliance confirmations since April 2025. Property owners should stay vigilant about easement agreements to avoid similar legal and financial consequences.
Terri Leclercq is a Montecito-based property law specialist with over 15 years of expertise in California real estate and easement disputes. Renowned for her in-depth analysis of cases like the Montecito Country Club landscaping easement dispute, Terri advises homeowners, attorneys, and developers on navigating complex property rights. A trusted voice in local media, she shares actionable insights on Montecito’s real estate landscape. Follow Terri on X for property law updates.
