History of the RDMIA
The Rio del Mar Improvement Association (RDMIA) was established during a meeting of nine property owners on August 16, 1941. The association filed its Articles of Incorporation in Sacramento on October 23, 1941, making it the second oldest neighborhood association in California.
During World War II, the association was temporarily shut down. At that time, there was little need for an “Improvement Association” in a community affected by war, where improvements were nearly impossible. Rio del Mar (RDM) was primarily composed of second homes that absentee owners could not use during this era. Many properties became rentals for construction and military personnel, drastically changing RDM’s atmosphere, appearance, and character, leading to a decline in property values. Non-resident owners became disillusioned, lost interest, and faced challenges selling their properties, leading to tax delinquencies that created additional problems for the county government.
This decline persisted until the end of World War II in 1945, when Germany and Japan surrendered. While Britain had been at war for nearly six years, the United States had been involved for just under four. The journey back to stability for communities and the nation would take much longer than the duration of the war. New norms emerged, fundamentally altering the community. Today, Rio del Mar vastly differs from what it was in 1940 and the future envisioned back then.
The RDMIA has remained active throughout these changes, playing a crucial role in the development of Highway 1, which was completed as a freeway in 1948, and the RDM interchange, dedicated in 1966. The association faced many challenges with the Rio del Mar County Club (Seascape Golf Club), concerning the Inn, the Beach Club, the Golf Lodge, and the surrounding facilities. RDMIA was instrumental in demolishing the neglected yet famous Beach Club and removing its facilities.
Over the years, the contributions of the RDMIA have been significant. The Deer Park Shopping Center was built with the assistance of RDMIA officers, who, under the leadership of President John Bruning, conducted surveys in 1973-1974. Based on the results, they influenced the owners and developers to proceed with the shopping center’s development plan.
Another notable development was Café Rio Aptos (Bella Union). The RDMIA actively supported initiatives to upgrade the Esplanade, assisting developers in navigating the complex planning and approval processes at the County and State Coastal Commission levels.
RDMIA, in collaboration with the Aptos Beach Pines Property Owners’ Association and others, played a pivotal role in the construction of the Rio Highlands subdivision, successfully addressing concerns voiced by residents. This effort spanned 16 years and required dedicated collaboration. County Supervisor Walter Symons recognized the community’s concerns and worked tirelessly with the Board of Supervisors and the State Coastal Commission to see the project through.
The engagement of the RDMIA has been consistent. Throughout our 85-year history, it has addressed various challenges, including floods, earthquakes, sewage issues, golf course concerns, incorporation efforts, the Whaley Memorial, real estate signage, and numerous others, always prioritizing the community’s best interests. Recently, RDMIA facilitated the installation of the Rio del Mar entrance welcome sign, contributed to developing the roundabout at the Esplanade — including relocating the Whaley sculpture — and renewed landscaping at the RDM off-ramp. Ongoing landscape maintenance of these areas and various medians remains a commitment.
In recognition of its efforts, RDMIA won the Aptos Chamber of Commerce award in 2015 and was honored with the “The Most Unique Float” award during the World’s Shortest Parade, July 4th, 2016, celebrating the association’s 75th anniversary.
Membership support, community volunteers, and donations enable the association to fulfill its mission. Together, RDMIA is dedicated to maintaining and improving the Rio del Mar community, making it a better place for everyone.
Thank you to all who have participated in this rich history. If you’re not already a member, we invite you to join us, and be a part of our future!
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