About the Riviera Association

Founded in 1930, the Association is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) organization that works to maintain and enhance the distinctive character of the Riviera and quality of life of its members. We educate and engage with our members on ways we can collectively improve our neighborhoods and increase public safety, focusing on areas such as zoning, density, policing, roadways, utilities, traffic safety, fire protection and land use.

The Association is primarily focused on addressing Riviera-specific needs and issues, but in some cases, we also work to educate our elected officials and advocate for Riviera interests at the City level. Following are examples of some of our recent accomplishments:

• Worked with SB City Parks and Public Works to arrange for clean-up at Franceschi Park and for clean-up and beautification of the medians on APS.
• With the help of our District 4 councilmember Kristen Sneddon, educated SB City Council and City Fire on the need for increased fire mitigation efforts on the Riviera, which led to decisions and additional resource commitments that were adopted and formalized in the updated Community Wildfire Protection Plan.
• Gathered and disseminated to our members important information on home hardening and other opportunities to reduce wildfire risks, including the benefits of forming Firewise Communities to better protect our neighborhoods.
• Along with Councilmember Sneddon, worked to educate City leadership about the wildfire-related risks of allowing State Senate Bill 9 (SB 9) lot splits and duplexes on the Riviera, which helped to influence the Council to prohibit SB 9 in our district.
• Organized and moderated a City Council District 4 candidates forum.

• Host in-person Spring and Fall meetings each year, and held virtual meetings during the pandemic. Recent speakers have included Jill Zachary of SB Parks and SBIFF executive director Roger Durling.
• Surveyed association members on key issues facing the Riviera and our city, drawing on the 140+ responses in our discussion with City leaders to advocate for improved fire safety, more affordable workforce housing, and preservation of our downtown character and aesthetic.
• Continue to monitor Riviera parks and other public spaces for graffiti, and follow up with the City as needed to effect removal (usually within 1-2 days).
• Recruited 8 members to serve 3-6 year terms on the Association’s Board. If you are interested in serving on the Board or its associated committees, please contact our president Shelley Bookspan at shelley@rivieraassociation.org.