Colony Days Marshal Mike Zappas

By Camille DeVaul · Fri Oct 10 2025

For more than three decades, Mike Zappas has played a central role in shaping the look and feel of Atascadero. His dedication to thoughtful development and his passion for preserving the city’s character are being recognized this year as he is named the Colony Days Marshal. 

“I didn't see it coming. I was shocked, I guess, is the word,” Mike explained his reaction to getting the news of being named Colony Day Marshal. But this isn’t Mike’s first time in the Atascadero spotlight. Back in 2023, he was named Citizen of the Year by the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce. That recognition reflected not only his impact as a developer but also his role as a community member whose work has touched nearly every corner of the city. 

Originally from Torrance, Mike grew up working in his father’s newspaper office, later helping manage apartments and retail properties as his father moved into real estate development. After gaining experience in property management, shopping centers, and even health clubs, Mike eventually found his way to Atascadero in 1991 with his wife, Peggy, and their family.

Early on after moving to SLO County, Mike managed Santa Ysabel Ranch and the River Lodge while also overseeing land sales that helped pave the way for future development in Atascadero. While business initially brought him to the Central Coast, it was the city’s natural beauty and welcoming community that convinced him and his family to settle permanently. 

One of his most notable projects was the development of Hidden Oaks, where he ensured that 215 mature oak trees were preserved during construction. Rather than clearing the land, Mike and his company, Z Villages Management and Development, worked around the trees — a decision recognized by the National Arbor Foundation. The project exemplified his belief that growth and preservation could work hand in hand. 

In recent years, Mike has led one of Atascadero’s most significant downtown revitalization projects: La Plaza. The development involved over 100 subcontractors, architects, and historians, all working together to create a space that honors the city’s history while introducing a new vibrancy to its core. La Plaza not only reflects Atascadero’s early roots as a planned colony and artistic community but also brings modern energy to the heart of town. Residents and visitors alike have noticed the change, with many viewing the project as a catalyst for renewed excitement about the city’s future. 

Mike has been given a lot of credit for the makeover that Atascadero has been receiving the last few years. But if you ask Mike, the credit goes to so many people. “I'm happy to take the credit for all this, but really, there's so many people involved. The city's very active, and there's other property owners that have all jumped in. And merchants, you know, it's hard to be a merchant today with the internet.” 

Throughout his career, Mike has emphasized collaboration, recognizing that his work is only possible with the support of talented teams and the wider community. His projects consistently highlight his goal of creating spaces that serve people and foster a sense of belonging. “I'm so proud of it,” Mike says of the city’s new life. “I moved downtown recently, and just getting up in the morning and walking down the street, I'm so proud to be here. It's the nicest town I can imagine. It's better than anything.”
Beyond his professional achievements, Mike and Peg raised four children in Atascadero, each of whom has contributed to the community in unique ways — through leadership, art, public service, and social advocacy. Today, Mike is gradually passing responsibilities to his son Max, who has stepped into a leadership role with Z Villages. 

Sadly, Peggy passed away at their home in Atascadero on June 5, 2024, after a courageous five-year battle with glioblastoma. Known for her positive spirit, love of fitness, and deep devotion to family, she was an active and cherished member of the community whose legacy continues through her children and grandchildren. 

Mike adds that he continues to build his roots in Atascadero and get more involved with local volunteer organizations, “We have a spirit of volunteerism here that just can't be beat.” 

As the 2025 Colony Days Marshal, Mike represents a vision of community that balances progress with preservation, always with an eye toward making Atascadero a place where both families and businesses can thrive. 

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