Isabella Vanderheiden / @ 11:51 a.m. / Agendizer

TONIGHT IS (PROBABLY) THE NIGHT! Humboldt Planning Commission Expected to Make a Decision on the County’s Short-Term Rental Ordinance

LoCO file photo.


PREVIOUSLY: Planning Commission Punts Short-Term Rental Discussion to Next Week; New Rules Slated for Approval in Mid-November

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Following several long months of public review and deliberation, the Humboldt County Planning Commission is expected to make a final decision on the county’s long-awaited short-term rental ordinance during tonight’s meeting. 

If approved, the draft guidelines would provide a regulatory framework for the permitting and operation of short-term rentals (dwelling units that are rented to guests for 30 consecutive days or less, through services such as Airbnb or Vrbo) in unincorporated areas of the county.  The Planning Commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors for review and approval.

The proposed rules have drawn criticism from some members of the public who feel the allowance of more short-term rentals would exacerbate the county’s housing crisis and take away opportunities for long-term renters and first-time homebuyers. Operators, on the other hand, argue that short-term rentals have the ability to strengthen the local economy by providing tourists with more accommodation options at various price points.

The Planning Commission received public comment on the draft ordinance during its last meeting on Nov. 16 but did not make a decision on the matter, as the meeting ran longer than expected. That being said, the commission will not take public comment during tonight’s meeting.

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The Humboldt County Planning Commission will meet tonight at 6 p.m. at the Humboldt County Courthouse — 825 Fifth Street, Eureka.

More information, including a copy of the draft ordinance and public comment submissions, can be found below.


Humboldt County Planning Commission
Nov. 30, 2023, 6 p.m.

A. CALL TO ORDER / SALUTE TO FLAG

B. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT

C. AGENDA MODIFICATIONS

D. PUBLIC COMMENT ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS: AT THIS TIME P

E. CONSENT CALENDAR

1. VIPA Farmers, LLC, Conditional Use Permit Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN) 219-011-007-000 Record No.


2. Slack & Winzler - Major Subdivision Application Number

The County of Humboldt is considering a major subdivision of a 44.2-acre parcel of land. The subdivision would create five residential lots ranging in size from 5.17 acres to 16.63 acres. The land is currently vacant and has been used for timber harvesting in the past. The lots would have access to community water and have on-site wastewater treatment systems. The Planning Commission is recommending the approval of the subdivision, subject to certain conditions. The project has undergone environmental review and is consistent with existing community plans and the general plan. The subdivision would require the construction of a new road and the filling of a small man-made wetland. The project has received approval or conditional approval from various agencies involved. The applicant and owner of the land is Slack & Winzler Properties, LLC. The agent for the project is Kelly O’Hern Associates. Any further questions about the project can be directed to Cliff Johnson, the Planning Manager.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Bollywood song!

(Verse 1)
In the County of Humboldt, where dreams come alive,
A major subdivision, a place to thrive,
Slack & Winzler, they’ve got a plan,
To create new homes on this vacant land.

(Chorus)
Oh, the beauty of Eureka, where nature’s at its best,
Where the mountains meet the ocean, a paradise blessed,
The Planning Commission, they will decide,
If this major subdivision can turn the tides.

(Verse 2)
44.2 acres, a blank canvas to create,
Five residential lots, where families will celebrate,
From 5.17 to 16.63 acres in size,
With community water, and on-site wastewater treatment, oh my!

(Chorus)
Oh, the beauty of Eureka, where nature’s at its best,
Where the mountains meet the ocean, a paradise blessed,
The Planning Commission, they will decide,
If this major subdivision can turn the tides.

(Verse 3)
Access from Elk River Road, a pathway to explore,
A new roadway will be built, for all to adore,
Surrounded by wildlife, and a protected SNC,
This development will harmonize with natural beauty.

(Chorus)
Oh, the beauty of Eureka, where nature’s at its best,
Where the mountains meet the ocean, a paradise blessed,
The Planning Commission, they will decide,
If this major subdivision can turn the tides.

(Bridge)
The project is in line with the General Plan,
No additional environmental review, the CEQA man,
With approval from agencies and no opposition in sight,
The future of this subdivision looks oh so bright.

(Chorus)
Oh, the beauty of Eureka, where nature’s at its best,
Where the mountains meet the ocean, a paradise blessed,
The Planning Commission, they have decided,
This major subdivision, it’s been provided.

(Outro)
Slack & Winzler, creating a place to call home,
In the County of Humboldt, where dreams are sown,
A major subdivision, a new chapter begins,
In this Bollywood song, the story never ends.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - FMS16-004 Subdivision RequirementsAttachment 1C - Slack & Winzler Tentative MapAttachment 2A - Soils-Geologic R-1Attachment 2B - OWTS ReportsAttachment 2C - Botanical Survey 07.18.2007Attachment 2D - BotanicalSurveyReport_Turner_8-31-2021_FinalAttachment 2E - NSO_Survey_WinzlerSubdivision_PLN-10797-FMSAttachment 2F - Wetland Delineation Memo (1)Attachment 2G - Forester letter regarding wetlandAttachment 3 - Referral TableAttachment 3A - Humboldt Bay Fire Protection District Referra'Attachment 3B - Humboldt Community Services DistrictAttachment 3C - CDFW Referral


3. Slow and Steady LLC Special Permit Assessor Parcel Number 210-061-008 Record No.

This document is about a Special Permit for a cannabis cultivation project in Humboldt County. The project includes a 7,400 square foot cultivation area and a 600 square foot nursery. The water usage for irrigation is estimated to be 35,700 gallons per year, and there will be a storage capacity of 55,775 gallons. The processing of the cannabis will be done offsite, and the energy will be provided by a generator. Only two employees will be present during peak operation. The project has already gone through environmental review and has been recommended for approval with certain conditions. The project location is in the Bridgeville area, and the land is currently zoned as unclassified. The summary concludes by listing the owner, applicant, and agent contact information for further inquiries.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a megachurch sermon!

Sermon Title: Planting Seeds of Transformation

Scripture: Matthew 13:31-32 - “He told them another parable: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches.’”

Introduction:

Good morning, brothers and sisters in Christ. Today, I want to share a message with you about the power of growth, transformation, and how even the smallest seeds can bring about great change. As we gather in worship today, we have an opportunity to reflect on the wonders of God’s creation and the role we can play in cultivating positive change in our world.

Body:

1. The Slow and Steady LLC Special Permit:
As some of you may know, there is a proposed project in our community that seeks to cultivate cannabis for commercial purposes. The Slow and Steady LLC Special Permit would allow for the cultivation of cannabis on a designated piece of land. This project has generated discussion and debate within our community, highlighting the importance of considering the potential impact of our actions.

2. The Parable of the Mustard Seed:
In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus uses the parable of the mustard seed to teach about the growth and transformative power of the Kingdom of Heaven. He describes the mustard seed as the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it becomes a tree, providing shelter and sustenance for birds. This parable reminds us that even the smallest acts or projects can have far-reaching effects when nurtured and cultivated with care.

3. Nurturing Positive Change:
Just as the approval of the Slow and Steady LLC Special Permit could potentially bring about change in our community, we are called as followers of Christ to be agents of positive change in the world around us. Our faith calls us to plant seeds of love, compassion, justice, and transformation in our relationships, neighborhoods, and society as a whole.

4. Responsible Stewardship:
As we navigate complex issues, such as the Slow and Steady LLC Special Permit, it is essential to approach them with the principles of responsible stewardship in mind. This means considering the environmental impact, social implications, and potential benefits or harm that may arise from our actions. We are called to protect and care for God’s creation, ensuring that our choices align with our values and seek the well-being of all.

5. Reflecting God’s Love:
In all our actions, we must remember that our primary mission as followers of Christ is to reflect God’s love and grace to the world. As we engage in discussions, debates, and decision-making processes, let us cultivate an attitude of humility, respect, and empathy, recognizing that we are all beloved children of God. Together, we can plant seeds of understanding, reconciliation, and unity.

Conclusion:

As we consider the proposed project and its potential impact on our community, let us remember the parable of the mustard seed. Just as a small seed can grow into a mighty tree, so too can our actions, choices, and conversations have a transformative effect on our world. May we be guided by love, wisdom, and a shared commitment to building a community that reflects God’s Kingdom here on earth. Let us pray for discernment, unity, and the courage to be faithful stewards of all that God has entrusted to us. Amen.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - Cultivation and Operations Plan 12408 Slow and SteadyAttachment 1C - Site PlanAttachment 2 - Map SetAttachment 3 - CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - Applicant's Evidence in Support of FindingsAttachment 4A - Right to Divert WaterAttachment 4B - Lake or Streambed Alteration AgreementAttachment 4C - Road EvaluationAttachment 4D - BLM Right of WayAttachment 5 - Referral Agency Comments


4. Sanders Hurlbutt Lot Line Adjustment, Zone Boundary Adjustment, and Amended Land Conservation Contract Assessor Parcel Numbers: 214-141-001 and 223-141-010 Record Number

The County of Humboldt is considering a request to adjust the boundaries of two parcels of land in the Redway area. The purpose of the adjustment is to align the property lines with the topography of the land and to exchange equal acreage between the parcels. The adjustment is part of an agreement to bring power from PG&E to one of the parcels. There will be no changes to the sizes of the parcels and no development is proposed. The Planning Commission is recommending approval of the adjustment, subject to certain conditions. The project has been reviewed by various agencies, and no major issues have been raised. The recommended resolution includes findings that the project is exempt from further environmental review and that the necessary conditions for approval have been met.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a town crier's speech!

Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention please!

I stand before you today to share important information regarding a matter that concerns the County of Humboldt. For the upcoming meeting on November 30th, 2023, I would like to draw your attention to File Number 23-1558.

This file pertains to the Planning Commission and has been submitted by the Planning and Building Department. It falls under the Agenda Section of Consent.

The subject of discussion is the Sanders Hurlbutt Lot Line Adjustment, Zone Boundary Adjustment, and Amended Land Conservation Contract. The Assessor Parcel Numbers involved in this matter are 214-141-001 and 223-141-010, located in the Redway area.

To provide you with more details of this project, I will go into the specifics. The Lot Line Adjustment aims to exchange approximately 13.1 acres of land between two parcels. Parcel 1 spans approximately 328 acres, while Parcel 2 covers about 167 acres. The exchange ensures no change in parcel sizes.

Additionally, a Zone Boundary Adjustment is requested to align with the adjusted parcel boundaries. Specifically, the Timberland Production Zone (TPZ) will be adjusted to coincide with the Agriculture Exclusive (AE-B-5 (160)) zone, which requires a minimum parcel size of 160 acres.

The purpose of these adjustments is to improve the property lines in relation to the topography of the parcels. It is also part of an agreement to bring power from PG&E to the Sanders parcel through an existing easement on the Hurlbutt property.

I must emphasize that no development is proposed as part of this project.

Now, let us turn our attention to the recommendations put forth by the Planning Commission. It is recommended that the Commission adopts the resolution (Resolution 23-__). This resolution acknowledges that the project is exempt from further environmental review under the State CEQA Guidelines. It also states that all required findings for approval have been made based on evidence presented.

Moving on to the discussion surrounding the project location, it is situated in the Redway area, specifically on the north side of Dean Creek Road. This location is approximately one mile northeast from the intersection of State Highway 101 and Dean Creek Road.

The present land use designations for the parcels involved are as follows: Parcel 1 is designated as Agricultural Grazing (AG), while Parcel 2 is designated as Timberland (T) under the Humboldt County General Plan.

Regarding the zoning, Parcel 1 is zoned as Agriculture Exclusive with a 10-acre minimum parcel size (AE-B-5 (160)). Parcel 2, on the other hand, has a dual zoning classification of Timberland Production Zone (TPZ) and Agriculture Exclusive (AE).

It is worth noting that the project has undergone environmental review and is exempt from further review, as per the CEQA Guidelines.

Regarding appeals, I would like to inform you that this project is located outside the Coastal Zone and is therefore not appealable to the California Coastal Commission.

Now, let us address the major issues pertaining to this project. Fortunately, there are no major issues identified that would impede the progress of the proposed adjustments.

In summary, the Hurlbutt Agricultural Preserve, which spans approximately 5,000 acres, will undergo a Lot Line Adjustment and Zone Boundary Adjustment to improve property lines and coincide with easements. The adjacent Sanders parcel, with an approved cannabis cultivation permit, will also benefit from these adjustments.

I would like to bring to your attention that this project has been reviewed and approved by the Forestry Review Committee and the Williamson Act Committee.

Lastly, I would like to remind you that all responding referral agencies have either offered no comment or recommended approval or conditional approval for this project.

If you have any further questions or require additional information, please direct your inquiries to Rodney Yandell, Senior Planner, by phone at 707-445-7541 or via email at ryandell@co.humboldt.ca.us.

Thank you for your attention, and let us all hope for a successful meeting on November 30th, 2023.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - Lot Line Adjustment MapAttachment 1C - Draft Ordinance for Adoption by the Board of SupervisorsAttachment 2 - Location MapAttachment 3 - TPZ Inclusion LetterAttachment 4 - Forestry Review Committee Draft Minutes May 25, 2023Attachment 5 - Williamson Act Committee Draft Minutes September 13, 2023Attachment 6 - Applicant’s Evidence in Support of the Required FindingsAttachment 7 - Referral Agency Comments and Recommendations


5. North Coast Hitching Post - Conditional Use Permit and Coastal Development Permit Extension Application Number

The Planning Commission is considering granting an extension for a seasonal venue in the Table Bluff area called North Coast Hitching Post. The venue is mainly used for weddings between May and October. The extension is being requested to allow the owner to complete conditions for the project, including upgrades to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and ensure the barn’s structural integrity. The permits were previously approved in 2022 and would be extended for three more years. The venue can host a maximum of 200 guests per event and a total of 18 events per year. The events will mainly occur on weekends, and activities must end by midnight. The project has been deemed exempt from environmental review and is in compliance with the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance. The location of the venue is on Table Bluff Road. The project has received positive feedback from other agencies involved. The owner of North Coast Hitching Post is Erik and Heidi Rubalcava. If there are any questions about the project, Steven Lazar, Senior Planner, can be contacted.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Schoolhouse Rock!

(Verse 1)
In the County of Humboldt, on a Table Bluff
There’s a Hitching Post venue, that’s known well enough
They host special events, like weddings, you see
But they need an extension, let’s learn what that means

(Chorus)
North Coast Hitching Post, they want more time
To complete their upgrades, to ensure it’s prime
They need ADA compliance, and structural strength
So they’re requesting an extension, let’s go the full length

(Verse 2)
The permits were approved, back in 2022
November’s the date, when they became true
Now they’re seeking three more years, for this special place
To hold their events, with joy and grace

(Chorus)
North Coast Hitching Post, they want more time
To complete their upgrades, to ensure it’s prime
They need ADA compliance, and structural strength
So they’re requesting an extension, let’s go the full length

(Bridge)
200 guests per event, and 18 events per year
Weekends are their focus, with occasional weekdays to cheer
From 10am to midnight, the festivities will roar
From the historic barn, memories to store

(Chorus)
North Coast Hitching Post, they want more time
To complete their upgrades, to ensure it’s prime
They need ADA compliance, and structural strength
So they’re requesting an extension, let’s go the full length

(Verse 3)
Environmental review, was previously exempt
The site changes are minimal, with no attempt
To alter the project, or the surroundings near
So let’s give them the extension, and show support and cheer

(Chorus)
North Coast Hitching Post, they want more time
To complete their upgrades, to ensure it’s prime
They need ADA compliance, and structural strength
So they’re requesting an extension, let’s go the full length

(Outro)
The Planning Commission, they’ll consider this request
To keep the Hitching Post thriving, and at its very best
Let’s support their endeavors, as they make memories bloom
North Coast Hitching Post, let’s grant them more room!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A Resolution Previously Approved by PC (11-3-2022)Attachment 1B Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1C Public Works Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1D Project DescriptionAttachment 1E Site PlanAttachment 2 - Location MapAttachment 3 - Photos of SiteAttachment 4 - Referral Agency Comments and RecommendationsAttachment 4A - Fortuna FPD - Inspection Rpt


F. OLD BUSINESS

1. JDS Construction Inc. Special Permit Record Number

This document is about a construction project in Humboldt County. JDS Construction Inc. wants to build a new two-story, two-bedroom Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). They need a special permit for this because the ADU is over 1,200 square feet. The project is located in the Fieldbrook area. The project has been reviewed by different agencies and has received mostly positive recommendations. There have been some concerns raised by neighbors, but the staff recommends approving the project. The Planning Commission will make the final decision.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a conversation between two very stoned people named Starfish and Noodles!

Starfish: Dude, have you seen the agenda for the Planning Commission meeting?

Noodles: Nah, man. What’s on it?

Starfish: It’s about this JDS Construction Inc. Special Permit for a new two-story two-bedroom Accessory Dwelling Unit.

Noodles: Whoa, that sounds fancy. What’s the deal with it?

Starfish: Well, apparently they want to build a 2,032 square foot ADU on this property in the Fieldbrook area. It’s gonna be two stories tall with a two-car garage. And get this, it’s gonna be over 1,200 square feet, so they need a Special Permit for it.

Noodles: Damn, that’s a big ADU. What’s the deal with the location?

Starfish: It’s on Evans Road, near the intersection of Fieldbrook Road and Old Railroad Grade Road. It’s in the Residential Estates area, and the zoning is Agriculture General.

Noodles: Cool, cool. Any concerns or issues with it?

Starfish: According to the agenda, there were some public comments expressing concerns. People think it’s gonna negatively impact the community, and there’s worry about sewer capacity and the possibility of the current residence being turned into a rental property.

Noodles: Yeah, people always gotta find something to complain about. What about the Planning Commission? What do they recommend?

Starfish: The Planning Commission is being recommended to adopt a resolution that says the project complies with the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance. They also say it’s exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act.

Noodles: That’s good news. So, what’s gonna happen at the meeting?

Starfish: Well, the Planning Commission will either adopt the resolution and approve the Special Permit, or they could add or delete conditions of approval. If they can’t make all the required findings, they could deny the approval.

Noodles: I hope they approve it, man. ADUs are a great way to provide more housing options.

Starfish: Totally, dude. It’s all about creating more affordable housing. And it sounds like the project meets all the requirements, so hopefully it goes through.

Noodles: Fingers crossed, bro. Let’s hope for a positive outcome.

Starfish: Absolutely, man. Let’s keep an eye out for the results of the meeting.

Noodles: For sure, dude. Can’t wait to see what happens.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - Site and Construction PlansAttachment 2 - Wetland and Other Waters Delineation ReportAttachment 3 - Leach Field Suitability ReportAttachment 4 - Referral Agency Comments and RecommendationsAttachment 5 - Public Comment


2. Georgi Stoyanov Special Permit Assessor Parcel Number: 212-311-002 Record No.

The County of Humboldt is having a meeting to discuss a special permit for a person named Georgi Stoyanov. The permit is for growing cannabis outdoors using specific techniques and for propagating plants. The water for irrigation comes from a well on the property, and there are plans to add more water storage. The project complies with the county’s laws and regulations. The Planning Commission is recommended to approve the permit with certain conditions. The project is located in the Miranda area, and there have been concerns raised by the public about things like landslides, traffic, and water resources. However, studies and reports have been done to address these concerns. The project also went through tribal consultation with local Native American tribes. The project is within the limits set by the county for permits and cultivation in that area, so it is consistent with county regulations. The meeting will also include comments from other agencies and the public.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a sea shanty!

(Verse 1)
In the County of Humboldt, by the rolling sea,
A Special Permit was sought, for cannabis to be.
Georgi Stoyanov, he sought the land,
To cultivate his crop, with careful hand.

(Chorus)
Oh, the Planning Commission, they gathered to see,
If Georgi Stoyanov’s dream, could truly be.
With a resolution, they would decide,
If the Special Permit, they would provide.

(Verse 2)
Nine thousand nine hundred seventy-five square feet,
Of outdoor cannabis, where it would meet.
With light deprivation, the plants would grow,
In the Miranda Area, where the wind would blow.

(Chorus)
Oh, the Planning Commission, they gathered to see,
If Georgi Stoyanov’s dream, could truly be.
With a resolution, they would decide,
If the Special Permit, they would provide.

(Verse 3)
Ancillary propagation, one thousand four hundred seventy,
Reduced to nine hundred eighty, that’s the decree.
Water from a groundwater well, it is sourced,
No hydrological connection, the report enforced.

(Chorus)
Oh, the Planning Commission, they gathered to see,
If Georgi Stoyanov’s dream, could truly be.
With a resolution, they would decide,
If the Special Permit, they would provide.

(Bridge)
With storage tanks of six thousand three hundred gallons,
More twenty thousand proposed, to prevent any stallions.
One hundred thirty-two thousand gallons used each year,
Drying and processing, all happening right here.

(Chorus)
Oh, the Planning Commission, they gathered to see,
If Georgi Stoyanov’s dream, could truly be.
With a resolution, they would decide,
If the Special Permit, they would provide.

(Verse 4)
No employees proposed, for the project’s run,
Power from Pacific Gas and Electric, all is done.
The project location, along State Highway 254,
In the County of Humboldt, where the cannabis thrives.

(Chorus)
Oh, the Planning Commission, they gathered to see,
If Georgi Stoyanov’s dream, could truly be.
With a resolution, they would decide,
If the Special Permit, they would provide.

(Outro)
So let us raise a toast, to Georgi Stoyanov’s quest,
May his cannabis cultivation always be blessed.
In the County of Humboldt, where the sea breezes blow,
With the Planning Commission’s approval, he’ll continue to grow.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - Cultivation and Operations PlanAttachment 1C - Cultivation Operations Plan AddendumAttachment 1D - Site PlanAttachment 2 - Location MapsAttachment 3 - CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - Applicant's Evidence in Support of Required FindingsAttachment 4A - Notice of ApplicabilityAttachment 4B - Water Resource Protection PlanAttachment 4C - Notification of Lake or Streambed AlterationAttachment 4D - Timber Conversion EvaluationAttachment 4E - Timber Restocking ReportAttachment 4F - Public Works Road Evaluation Report FormAttachment 4G - Hydrogeologic ReportAttachment 5 - Referral Agency Comments and RecommendationsAttachment 5A - Public Works, Land Use Division ResponseAttachment 5B - CalFIRE ResponseAttachment 5C - CDFW ResponseAttachment 6 - Public Comment


3. Draft Short-term Rental Ordinance Record No.: LRP-2022-17963 & LRP-2023-18254 All unincorporated areas of Humboldt County Inland and coastal zone ordinances to allow the use of residences for short-term rentals within the unincorporated areas of Humboldt County. The ordinance does the following: a) Creates two tiers of rentals consisting of units partially rented by the occupants of the residence and rental of the whole unit; b) Establishes performance criteria for the operation of short term re

The County of Humboldt is considering a new ordinance that would allow people to rent out their homes for short periods of time in certain areas. The ordinance would create rules for how these rentals can operate and would limit the number of units allowed in certain areas. The Planning Commission is holding a meeting to discuss the ordinance and make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors. Some of the changes being considered include requiring a safety manual for tenants, allowing alternative owner-built structures to be used for short-term rentals with additional permits, and limiting the number of permits a person or business can have. The Commission is also discussing how to prevent permits from being transferred between owners. The ordinance would only apply to the unincorporated areas of Humboldt County. The meeting is open to the public for comments and discussion. If you have any questions, you can contact the planner in charge of this item.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Twitter thread!

THREAD:

📢 Attention Humboldt County residents! 🏡🌲 The Planning Commission will be holding a public hearing on 11/30/2023 to discuss the draft Short-term Rental Ordinance for all unincorporated areas of the county. 🏠🌊 Stay tuned for more details! #HumboldtCounty #PlanningCommission

📄 File #: 23-1530

✅ The draft Short-term Rental Ordinance aims to regulate short-term rentals in Humboldt County, creating two tiers of rentals and establishing performance criteria for their operation. 🛌💼🏢 #HumboldtCounty #ShortTermRentals

🔍 The ordinance also creates an Administrative Permit to authorize rentals that comply with the regulations, with a discretionary permit available for deviations from standards. Additionally, it sets a cap on the number of units allowed around the Humboldt Bay Area. 🌉🤝 #PlanningCommission

📍 The new ordinance would affect both inland and coastal areas of Humboldt County, with amendments to various code sections. Check out the details in the thread for more information. 📑👥 #HumboldtCounty #PlanningCommission

📋 Here are the recommendations from the Planning Commission regarding the draft Short-term Rental Ordinance:

1️⃣ Staff to provide an introduction to the changes made based on comments and previous deliberations.
2️⃣ Allow for public comment on the proposed ordinance.
3️⃣ Deliberate and comment on the draft ordinance.
4️⃣ Provide guidance and amendments to the draft ordinance for a recommendation to the Board of Supervisors. #HumboldtCounty #PlanningCommission

✅ Environmental review indicates that the ordinance is exempt, and the Short-term Rental Ordinance for coastal areas must be approved by the California Coastal Commission. 🌿🌊 #HumboldtCounty #EnvironmentalReview

📝 During previous hearings, the Planning Commission discussed various policy changes. Here are a few highlights:

1️⃣ Good Neighbor Guides will now include a traffic etiquette pamphlet and must be present in all short-term rentals.
2️⃣ Alternative Owner Builder structures will have a separate pathway for STR permits, requiring a Special Permit and after-the-fact Building Permit.
3️⃣ Per person cap reduced to a maximum of three (3) short-term rental permits.
4️⃣ STR permits can be transferable to immediate family members but not blanket transferability.
5️⃣ Private parties and gatherings allowed up to twice the maximum occupancy between 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., with proper identification in the STR application and adequate parking. 🎉🎊 #HumboldtCounty #PlanningCommission

📑 Check out the attachments for more detailed information on the draft ordinance, resolutions, public comments, and the previous Planning Commission package. 📎 #HumboldtCounty #PlanningCommission

If you have any questions about the draft Short-term Rental Ordinance, feel free to contact Cade McNamara, Planner, at cmcnamara@co.humboldt.ca.us or 707-268-3777. 📞📧 #HumboldtCounty #PlanningCommission

Stay informed, engage in the process, and let your voice be heard at the public hearing! 🗣️👥 Together, we can shape the future of short-term rentals in Humboldt County. #HumboldtCounty #PlanningCommission

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 Inland Draft Short-term Rental Ordinance_11.8 cm es.pdfAttachment 2 Coastal Short-term Rental Ordinance 11.8 cm.pdfAttachment 3 STR PC Resolutions (Inland & Coastal) 11.8 cm.pdfAttachment 4 - Public CommentsStaff Report


G. NEW BUSINESS

1. John Piccirilli Assessor’s Parcel Numbers: 522-024-004 Record Numbers

This document is about a Conditional Use Permit for a cannabis cultivation project in the Willow Creek area of Humboldt County. The project includes both indoor and outdoor cultivation, as well as an ancillary nursery. It will use groundwater for irrigation and power will be provided by a solar system. The project also involves the restoration of former cultivation areas. The Planning Commission is recommending approving the permit with certain conditions. The document also includes information about the project location, land use designation, zoning, and environmental review. It mentions concerns about water resources, tribal cultural resources, energy, access, geologic suitability, timber conversion, and security and safety. The document states that the project is consistent with county regulations and will not negatively impact the environment. Various agencies have responded with no comments or recommendations for approval. The document includes attachments with draft resolutions, conditions of approval, operations and site plans, location maps, a CEQA addendum, and other supporting documents.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a right-wing radio talk show hosted by Merv "The Beast" Tarkington!

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to “The Beast’s Den,” your go-to source for conservative talk radio. I’m your host, Merv “The Beast” Tarkington, here to share my unfiltered opinions on the issues that matter most to freedom-loving Americans.

Today, we’re diving into a controversial topic right in our backyard: the John Piccirilli Conditional Use Permit for cannabis cultivation in the Willow Creek area of Humboldt County. Now, we all know that California is no stranger to the cannabis industry, but just how far should we allow it to invade our communities?

This permit seeks to authorize 8,475 square feet of mixed light cultivation, along with 7,000 square feet of outdoor commercial cannabis cultivation. And let’s not forget the 1,500 square foot nursery thrown into the mix. That’s a whole lot of cannabis, folks.

But what really caught my attention is the estimated annual irrigation water budget of 64,200 gallons. That’s a staggering amount of water being used for this operation, all sourced from a groundwater well. Now, I understand that agriculture requires water, but shouldn’t we be prioritizing our precious water resources for other vital uses?

And let’s not overlook the issue of energy. The project plans to rely on a proposed solar system for power, which is commendable. However, we can’t ignore the fact that this cannabis cultivation will have a significant energy demand. Is it really worth it? Shouldn’t we be focusing on more sustainable and responsible industries?

Now, I’m not opposed to the responsible use of cannabis or even its cultivation for medicinal purposes. But when we start granting permits left and right without considering the potential impacts on our communities, it becomes a serious problem.

Furthermore, this project includes the restoration of former cultivation areas. But let me ask you this: should we be prioritizing the restoration of areas ravaged by the cannabis industry in the first place? I think our focus should be on preventing further destruction, rather than trying to fix the damage that’s already been done.

What about the concerns surrounding supply creek? We can’t afford to overlook the potential environmental impacts of this project. Sediment discharge has already been observed, and it’s clear that more needs to be done to ensure the protection of our natural resources.

I urge the Planning Commission to carefully consider the potential consequences of granting this permit. We must prioritize the well-being of our communities and the sustainability of our environment over the interests of a single individual.

That’s all the time we have for today, but remember to tune in next time for more conservative commentary on the issues that matter most. I’m Merv “The Beast” Tarkington, signing off from “The Beast’s Den.” Stay strong, America!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - Cultivation and Operations PlanAttachment 1C - Site PlanAttachment 2 - Location MapAttachment 3 - CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - Applicant's Evidence in Support of FindingsAttachment 4A - Well Completion ReportAttachment 4B - Well PermitAttachment 4C - Timberland Conversion EvaluationAttachment 4D - Site Management PlanAttachment 4E - Supply Creek Ambient Water Grab Sampling ResultsAttachment 4F - Supply Creek Surface Water Supply StudyAttachment 4G - Supply Creek Cumulative Impact AssessmentAttachment 4H - Road EvaluationAttachment 5 - Referral Agency Comments


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