Poplar Beach pilot project to test four fire pits amid safety concerns and community debate

In the heart of Half Moon Bay, the City Council convened on January 21, 2025, to discuss a pilot project that has sparked both enthusiasm and concern among residents: the temporary placement of fire pits on Poplar Beach. As the meeting unfolded, council members weighed the potential benefits of providing a controlled environment for beach bonfires against the backdrop of recent wildfires in Southern California, which have heightened fears about fire safety.

The proposal, championed by community member Chloe Standes, aims to install up to four fire pits for a two-week trial period. City officials assured attendees that the project would fall under the city’s insurance and indemnification policies, addressing concerns raised by constituents about liability. Matthew, a city representative, emphasized that the initiative is designed to manage the illegal bonfires that frequently occur on the beach, which pose risks to both safety and the environment.

However, the discussion quickly turned heated as Council Member Penrose expressed her apprehension. Citing the unpredictable nature of wind and the potential for embers to ignite surrounding vegetation, she voiced her opposition to the project, urging caution in light of recent fire disasters. “I cannot approve of this project right now,” she stated, reflecting a sentiment shared by some residents who fear that even controlled fires could lead to disaster.

In contrast, Council Member Reddick defended the pilot project, pointing to successful implementations in other coastal cities like Carmel. He argued that the fire pits would provide a safer alternative to uncontrolled bonfires, which have historically created messes and safety hazards on the beach. Reddick proposed that the council consult with other cities to adopt best practices for managing the fire pits.

As the debate continued, community members weighed in, with some advocating for the pilot as a necessary step toward addressing the ongoing issue of illegal fires. Eric DeBode, a local resident, highlighted the dangers posed by leftover embers and debris from unauthorized bonfires, suggesting that a pilot program could help mitigate these risks.

The council ultimately decided to move forward with the pilot project, with provisions for monitoring and safety measures, including the potential addition of lids for the fire pits to suffocate flames at the end of the night. The decision reflects a balancing act between fostering community enjoyment of the beach and ensuring the safety of residents and the environment.

As the council prepares to implement this pilot program, the community watches closely, hopeful that this initiative will lead to safer beach experiences while addressing the pressing concerns of fire safety in a region increasingly vulnerable to wildfires.