Mystery surrounds the reopening status of Ty Warner’s Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore in Santa Barbara.
A representative of Ty Warner Hotels and Resorts said she could not comment on the matter, but readers have contacted Noozhawk to say they have heard that layoff notices went out to some employees.
Calls and emails to other hotel executives were not returned.
Most other hotels in Santa Barbara have reopened amid the COVID-19 pandemic, but The Biltmore at 1260 Channel Drive remains closed.
A letter obtained by Noozhawk that went out to Coral Casino Club members recently said the facilities have been in need of repair.
There are roof leaks, marble floor degradation and other maintenance issues. Ty Warner Hotel Group is attempting to remedy that situation during this period.
“The owner has made it very clear that it is unacceptable for the reopening of the Coral to be irresponsible, thus leading to serious illness or the death of any of our members,” the letter stated. “From the feedback we receive from membership, this effort is applauded by many, while others would prioritize an expedient reopening over safety concerns.
“I think we can all put ourselves into both of these positions. We desperately want our club back, but at what potential cost to our fellow members and families?”
The Coral Casino’s website includes a message from June 26 that states: “While other clubs are partially to fully reopened, the Coral Casino and Montecito Club have taken a more prudent approach, and will not operate with upward trends and spikes of coronavirus cases in the county and across the country. As you are aware, the occurrence of a positive case of the virus could have dire consequences long term.”
The website also states: “With the club’s closure continuing to be in place, Mr. Ty Warner will continue to waive all recurring charges including monthly dues, cabanas and locker fees until the reopening of the club. In addition, the minimum food and beverage charge will also be waived.”
Local officials in the hospitality industry also seemed unsure of the status of The Biltmore and casino.
Tom Patton, general manager/partner at the Ramada Santa Barbara and a board member for Hospitality Santa Barbara, said he last heard that The Biltmore would open Aug. 1.
“But I have not heard any updates in the past few weeks,” Patton said.
Most hotels are now open, with the exception of the Mason Beach Inn, which is closed for renovations, Patton said.
Kathy Janega-Dykes, president and CEO of Visit Santa Barbara, said: “Unfortunately, I do not know anything about the reopening of the Four Seasons Biltmore Resort. I have not heard a thing.”
A person who answered the phone at The Biltmore on Thursday afternoon said she had not been given a date for a reopening.
Noozhawk’s efforts to book a room at the hotel for August were met with this response:
“As we collectively respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara continues to ensure that guest and employee health and safety remains our top priority. As a result, we are evaluating our reopening date and are not taking reservations at this time.
“Upon reopening, there will be a screening procedure that may include temperature checking, as well as a series of questions regarding health and recent travel. Our employees will be wearing masks.”
— Noozhawk staff writer Joshua Molina can be reached at jmolina@noozhawk.com. Follow Noozhawk on Twitter: @noozhawk, @NoozhawkNews and @NoozhawkBiz. Connect with Noozhawk on Facebook.
