Flat Top scenic view becomes public parkland, protected from developers

Many of L.A.’s most stunning hilltop views can only be seen from the houses that sit atop them, shutting out the public.

One such view is called Flat Top, a half-acre of grassland with a panoramic view of the city, located in Montecito Heights.

But this view will remain open to all Angelenos, after nonprofit North East Trees cut the ribbon in a ceremony last weekend, securing it as parkland and protecting it from developers.

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“Flat Top is more than just a hill with sweeping views of Los Angeles,” said Carlos Moran, executive director of North East Trees in a written statement. “It is a cultural and ecological treasure where generations, including the First Peoples of this land, have gathered, explored, and connected with nature.

"Thanks to the community’s commitment and the County’s support, it will remain a permanent sanctuary for future generations.”

Tribal members will have access to the land

North East Trees entered into an agreement with the Gabrieleno Tongva San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians, Moran said, where Indigenous youth and other members will use the land for traditional ceremonies and native plant gathering, as well as be responsible for caretaking of the site for fire resiliency.

“We're happy to be working with the community, which also cares for the land,” said M.J. Yang, a tribal biologist for the Gabrieleno Tongva San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians.

The parcel was bought with help from L.A. County’s Measure A, passed in 2016. The measure created a 1.5-cent tax per square foot of improvements in L.A. County properties.

Earlier this year, L.A. County officials announced that they had awarded $17 million in Measure A funds to expand parkland open to the public. The funds in that year alone will help create 623 acres of new parkland in the county.

“Whether it’s for hundreds of acres of open space or small neighborhood parks, investments by the Regional Park and Open Space District directly serve residents in every part of the county,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger in a written statement.