Yamaguchi Site Deemed ‘Unsuitable’ for Possible SMC Satellite Campus

• Trustees Terminate Escrow on Seven Acres in Civic Center Area

Malibu city officials announced this week that the college district trustees have terminated escrow on the Civic Center property owned by the Yamaguchi Tokiye Trust.

The property was previously identified as a potential site for the Santa Monica College Malibu satellite campus, but was determined to be “unsuitable” for the project. City Manager Jim Thorsen said he did not know what the specifics were for rejection. There was no official SMC statement on the reasons for the trustees action on Monday night.

“Several alternative sites have been identified,” said SMC President Dr. Chui Tsang, in the press release issued by City Hall. “And both the college board and city officials are optimistic that a suitable location in the Civic Center will be found for the Malibu campus.” Tsang was not available for comment on Tuesday when The News goes to press.

In August, city and college officials had announced the start of escrow on the nearly seven-acre parcel adjacent to Malibu City Hall for $8 million.

Since then, extensive trenching was done on the property, a former nursery sometimes known as the “rain forest.” Thorsen said it is probable the rejection of the site was based on test results.

When voters approved Measure S in November 2004, it contained language allowing the city and SMC to partner in the planning of a satellite campus by forming a joint powers authority. The measure allocated $25 million of the bond proceeds to be spent within Malibu.