Santa Margarita Drive has been resurfaced twice in recent decades. In both cases, the costs were shared among the affected property owners, and the assessments were calculated using the methodology in place at the time.
Southern Section (1996)
The southern portion of Santa Margarita Drive, from 1650 Santa Margarita Drive to Quail Creek Road, was last paved in 1996 at a total cost of $33,961.69.
Assessment amounts were calculated using the methodology established in May 1989, based on the measured distance from the County road sign to the center of each property’s driveway (or to the parcel if no driveway existed).
The assessment methodology included:
- Improved properties (homes or groves) were assessed at the full rate.
- Unimproved properties (vacant land) were assessed at one-half the rate of improved properties.
- Properties on Quail Creek Road, River Oaks Lane, Hilbert Drive, Moon Rock Road, Edgewater Estates, and west of Edgewater Estates were assessed using the same distance-based method.
- Property owners on Santa Margarita Drive were responsible for removing dirt, debris, and vegetation within two feet of the roadway before paving. If this work was not completed, it was performed and billed to the property owner.
The assessment methodology was challenged in court and was ultimately upheld in both Small Claims Court and Superior Court.
Northern Section (2005)
The northern portion of Santa Margarita Drive, from the Edgewater Estates gate to 1650 Santa Margarita Drive, was last paved in 2005 at a total cost of $49,635.47.
The same assessment methodology used for the 1996 paving project was applied to the properties north of 1650 Santa Margarita Drive.
Looking Forward
This history provides context for how previous paving projects were funded and how assessment methods have been applied in the past. As Santa Margarita Drive continues to age, understanding these previous projects can help property owners evaluate future maintenance needs and funding options.