Cannon Beach Family Says Home Is Being Buried By Sand
Cannon Beach, Ore. – The clock is ticking for a Cannon Beach home the owner says is being swallowed by the sand.
Stacy Niedermeyer’s family has owned the oceanfront property since the 1970s. She says until the 1990s, a handshake agreement allowed a local contractor to periodically clear sand from the sea wall in front of the house. In 1992, they won a court battle, clearing the way for a 32-year sand excavation deal. But, with that expired, she says the sand is taking over.
“The sea wall, a deck and stairs are now 12-feet under sand. It’s going to accumulate to the windows.” She tells KXL News, “I’ve lost 30′ in front of my house.”
Her son Mac says they’re now back in court, fighting a permit denial by Oregon Parks and Recreation, “It’s scary. It’s frustrating. It’s annoying. We’re doing everything we can on our side to try to get us to the point of where we were. The state’s been stalling.” Stacy adds, “I’m shocked it’s gone this far.”
KXL reached out to the city of Cannon Beach to confirm the previous agreements. A city official said they have no comment. Oregon Parks and Rec would not comment on pending litigation, but says its decision was upheld by an Administrative Law Judge.