Isabella Vanderheiden / @ 1:19 p.m. / Agendizer

Humboldt Planning Commission to Continue Conversation on Proposed Rules for Short-Term Rentals During Tonight’s Meeting

Photo: Andrew Goff

Previously: A New Cap on Airbnbs? County Planning Commission Hears Public Feedback on Proposed Short-Term Rental Ordinance

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The Humboldt County Planning Commission will return to the contentious topic of short-term rentals during tonight’s regular meeting.

The commission held a workshop on Sept. 21 to review draft guidelines for 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. Members of the public provided feedback on the proposed rules at the meeting but the discussion went on longer than anticipated, leaving no time for commissioners to ask their own questions or provide direction to staff.

During tonight’s meeting, county staff will go through the ordinance section by section with time for questions and comments from commissioners. 

“We will simply be continuing the workshop we began at the last meeting,” Planning Commission Chair Noah Levy wrote in an email to the Outpost. “Public comment was completed at the last meeting, so tonight we won’t have additional public comment, but will allow for the commissioners to discuss and ask questions about the draft ordinance and the comments we have already received.”

The commission will not take any formal action on the draft ordinance tonight, but it may suggest revisions for staff to work on, Levy added.

The short-term rental ordinance will come back to the Planning Commission during a special meeting on Thursday, Oct. 26. During that meeting, commissioners will receive additional public comment on the draft ordinance and make a formal recommendation to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors.

More information can be found here.

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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. 

Keep scrolling for further analysis of the agenda from Gennie the LoCOBot!


Humboldt County Planning Commission
Oct. 5, 2023, 6 p.m.

A. CALL TO ORDER / SALUTE TO FLAG

B. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT

C. AGENDA MODIFICATIONS

D. PUBLIC COMMENT ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS:

E. CONSENT CALENDAR

1. Review and approval of the September 21, 2023, Action Summary.

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

The County of Humboldt had a meeting on October 5, 2023, to discuss a project by VIPA Farmers, LLC. They are requesting a Conditional Use Permit to cultivate cannabis in the Salmon Creek area. The project would involve 12,536 square feet of cultivation and three harvests per year. They also have a greenhouse for propagation and use rainwater and tanks for irrigation. All processing would take place on-site. Currently, they use a diesel generator for electricity but are looking to switch to grid power. The recommendation from the meeting is to continue the VIPA Farmers project, but a date has not yet been determined.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a bedtime story!

Once upon a time, in the beautiful County of Humboldt, there was a special farm called VIPA Farmers. This farm was located in the serene Salmon Creek area and was home to something very unique - a cannabis cultivation site.

VIPA Farmers had been granted a special permit, known as a Conditional Use Permit, allowing them to grow cannabis in their 12,536 square feet farm. They would be able to have three harvests every year, providing a bountiful supply of this magical plant.

To ensure the health and growth of their cannabis plants, VIPA Farmers had a special greenhouse called a propagation greenhouse. It covered an area of 1,250 square feet and served as a nurturing space for the young plants to grow before they were ready to be moved to the main cultivation area.

Water was an essential resource for the plants, and VIPA Farmers had thought of everything. They had a massive rainwater catchment pond, with a capacity of 300,000 gallons, to collect water from the sky. Additionally, they had 6 hard tanks, holding a total of 6,200 gallons, as an extra water source. This ensured that their plants would always have enough water to thrive.

On average, VIPA Farmers used 216,895 gallons of water each year, which amounted to 21.8 gallons per square foot of their cultivation area. It was important for them to keep their plants well-hydrated, as it would help them grow strong and healthy.

What made VIPA Farmers even more special was that they handled the entire cannabis processing on-site. From harvesting the plants to extracting their beneficial elements, everything was done within the farm. This allowed them to ensure the highest quality of their products while also reducing environmental impact.

However, there was one aspect that needed improvement. VIPA Farmers relied on a diesel generator to power their operations. But they had a brilliant plan! They wanted to switch to using grid power, which was more sustainable and environmentally friendly. They were in talks with a company called PG&E to make this dream a reality.

The County of Humboldt had been keeping an eye on VIPA Farmers’ progress and had gathered to discuss the project. After careful consideration, they decided to continue the VIPA Farmers project to an uncertain date. The county officials wanted to ensure that everything was in place, and all the necessary details were finalized before granting the farm its desired grid power.

And so, VIPA Farmers continued to cultivate their cannabis plants under the stars of Humboldt County. With their dedication to sustainability and their passion for their craft, they were an inspiration to other farmers in the area. They were proof that with the right permits and responsible practices, it was possible to grow a magical plant like cannabis in harmony with nature.

As the county officials continued to work with VIPA Farmers to achieve their goal of obtaining grid power, the farm flourished. And in the years to come, the children of Humboldt County would hear tales of VIPA Farmers, a truly exceptional farm that showed the world how cannabis cultivation could be done with care and respect for the environment.

And they all lived greenly ever after.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff Report


3. Brightview - Final Map Subdivision Application Number

The County of Humboldt is considering a proposal to subdivide a vacant parcel of land into seven residential lots in the McKinleyville area. The subdivision would include reduced setback requirements for some lots and a reduced right of way width. The parcels would be served by community water and sewer services. The Planning Commission is recommended to adopt a resolution approving the subdivision, as no further environmental review is required. The project has received approval from various agencies and no opposition has been received. The location of the project is on Railroad Drive in McKinleyville.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a corrido!

En el condado de Humboldt, la reunión está por llegar
El 10 de mayo de 2023, todos deben de asistir
La subdivisión de Brightview, es lo que se discutirá
Un proyecto de gran envergadura que se ha propuesto realizar

El mapa final de subdivisión, es lo que se busca aprobar
Con seis lotes residenciales y uno más por crear
Con una reducción de los requisitos de espacio delantero
En el lote propuesto número siete, será el primero

También se busca reducir el ancho del camino
En los lotes uno, dos y tres, como parte del plan
El terreno está vacío, pero será conectado
Servido por agua y alcantarillado del distrito comunitario de McKinleyville

Se recomienda al departamento de planificación
Adoptar la resolución y hacer la aprobación
Ya que se ha considerado una Declaración Negativa Mitigada
Y no se requiere un nuevo estudio ambiental

El proyecto ha expirado en los últimos años
Pero no se proponen cambios, todo sigue igual
La subdivisión crea siete lotes, no más
Con tamaños entre seis mil y ocho mil pies cuadrados en total

Se propone reducir el espacio delantero requerido
Para el garaje en el lote número siete
Pasará de veinte a dieciocho pies, eso se ha decidido
Debido a la forma estrecha del lote, eso es lo que se ve

El ancho de la calle también se busca reducir
De treinta a treinta y cinco pies, eso se va a requerir
Esto se debe a la configuración física del terreno
De acuerdo con el departamento de bomberos de Arcata, es lo más conveniente

También se busca reducir el ancho mínimo de tres lotes
Los números uno, dos y tres, para ser más exactos
Con un ancho entre veinticinco y cuarenta pies
Medido en el espacio delantero, eso es lo que se especifica

El departamento de obras públicas ha indicado
Que puede apoyar las excepciones solicitadas
En su memo del 8 de octubre de 2015, se ha expresado
El apoyo a las solicitudes para que sean aprobadas

Todos los lotes estarán conectados por un camino privado
Con un ancho de entre treinta y cuarenta pies, lo han decidido
Aunque el departamento de obras públicas apoya el ancho reducido
No apoya la propuesta de no tener un carril de estacionamiento incluido

El departamento de obras públicas requiere
Que se incluya un carril de estacionamiento en el camino
Pero el solicitante busca minimizar las superficies impermeables
Por eso solo propone dos carriles de viaje, eso es lo que desea hacer

El estudio de sombreado solar se ha realizado
Y cumple con las ordenanzas y regulaciones
El sombreado máximo permitido en cualquier estructura
No superará el veinte por ciento, eso es lo que asegura

Todas las agencias han recomendado la aprobación
Sujeto a las condiciones y requisitos que mencionan
El departamento de obras públicas ha requerido
Un informe hidráulico y un plan de drenaje para ser aprobados

El terreno está ubicado en McKinleyville
A un lado de Railroad Drive, es donde se construirá
El uso de la tierra permitido actualmente
Es residencial de baja densidad, eso se ha establecido

En cuanto a la revisión ambiental, no se requiere
Ya que se ha hecho una declaración negativa mitigada
En diciembre de 2015, se aprobó la propuesta inicialmente
Y no se han hecho cambios, así que no se requiere otra evaluación

El proyecto no es apelable ante la Comisión Costera de California
Y las agencias involucradas han dado su aprobación
No se han recibido comentarios oposición a la propuesta
Y todas las recomendaciones han sido de aprobación

El acceso a la subdivisión es a través de Railroad Drive
Desde McKinleyville Avenue y Central Avenue también se puede llegar
Todas las carreteras son públicas y cumplen con los estándares
Pero se ha solicitado una excepción para el derecho de paso

El departamento de obras públicas la ha revisado
Y apoya la solicitud hecha por el solicitante
También han hecho una excepción a los requisitos típicos
De tener un carril de estacionamiento, área de paisaje y banqueta

La ubicación del proyecto es en 1417 Railroad Drive
En McKinleyville, en el lado noreste
El uso de la tierra y la zonificación están adecuados
Y no hay recursos o peligros que hayan sido identificados

Se ha circulado la solicitud de aprobación a varias agencias
Y todas han dado su aprobación o condicionalmente aprobación
No se han recibido comentarios en contra, solo a favor
Y se ha determinado que no hay un impacto significativo en el medio ambiente

Como alternativa a la recomendación del personal
La Comisión podría optar por no aprobar el proyecto según su valor
Pero el personal ha determinado que los requisitos se cumplen
Y no se recomienda esta opción para que se prosiga el desarrollo

Se adjuntan los documentos necesarios para su revisión
La resolución, los términos y condiciones que se deben cumplir
También el mapa tentativo y la evidencia presentada por el solicitante
Y los comentarios y recomendaciones de las agencias involucradas

El solicitante y el dueño del proyecto es Brightview Homes
Ubicados en 23 Golden Star, Irvine, California, eso es lo que se menciona
Si tiene alguna pregunta, puede comunicarse con Cliff Johnson
Al correo electrónico cjohnson@co.humboldt.ca.us o al 707-445-7541

Esta es la información que se ha proporcionado
Sobre el proyecto de subdivisión de Brightview
Esperamos que sea de su interés
Y que esta reunión de la Comisión de Planificación sea un éxito

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - PW ConditionsAttachment 1C - Tentative Map 06.28.2023Attachment 2 - Applicant's Evidence in Support of the Required FindingsAttachment 3 - Referral Agency Comments and RecommendationStaff ReportAttachment 4B - PC Resolution 15-41_Pettlon_6464


4. Mad River Medicinals, Inc. Conditional Use Permit and Special Permit Assessor Parcel Number 208-251-002 Record No.

The County of Humboldt is considering giving permission for Mad River Medicinals, Inc. to use an area in Dinsmore for growing cannabis. The company plans to use 18,500 square feet of outdoor space for cultivation, along with a smaller nursery. They will get water from a well and a spring on the property, and will use a solar system for power. They will also follow guidelines to protect the environment and wildlife. The county is recommending that the Planning Commission approve the project.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Bollywood song!

(Verse 1)
In the County of Humboldt, a story unfolds,
About a project that seeks to make its hold,
Mad River Medicinals, they aim high,
To cultivate cannabis under the sky.

(Chorus)
Mad River Medicinals, a dream come true,
With a conditional use permit, they’ll break through,
With a water diversion in the Streamside Management Area,
They’ll grow their cannabis with love and care.

(Verse 2)
18,500 square feet, a nursery in sight,
Supporting outdoor cultivation, day and night,
Water sourced from a well and on-site spring,
With storage tanks to help the crop to bring.

(Bridge)
Trimming and packaging done off-site,
But processing will happen within the light,
With a solar system, they aim to go green,
And a generator for backup, unforeseen.

(Chorus)
Mad River Medicinals, a dream come true,
With a conditional use permit, they’ll break through,
With a water diversion in the Streamside Management Area,
They’ll grow their cannabis with love and care.

(Verse 3)
No employees proposed, just operators and kin,
Working hard to make this venture win,
Residential Agriculture, the land’s designation,
But they’ll cultivate cannabis with dedication.

(Chorus)
Mad River Medicinals, a dream come true,
With a conditional use permit, they’ll break through,
With a water diversion in the Streamside Management Area,
They’ll grow their cannabis with love and care.

(Outro)
Mad River Medicinals, they’ll make their mark,
Bringing joy and healing, even in the dark,
Bollywood celebrates their bold pursuit,
In the County of Humboldt, where dreams take root.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of Approval 08.07.2023Attachment 1B - Cultivation Operations Plan 07.14.2023Attachment 1C - 12498 Revised Site Plan 07.20.2023Attachment 2 - Maps SetAttachment 3 - CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - Applicant Submitted InformationAttachment 4A - Lake and Streambed Alteration AgreementAttachment 4B - Notice of IntentAttachment 4C - Right to Divert and Use WaterAttachment 4D - Road EvaluationAttachment 4E - Well Completion ReportAttachment 4F - Water Resources Protection PlanAttachment 5 - Referral Agency Comments and RecommendationsAttachment 6 - Watershed Map


F. WORKSHOP

1. 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 rentals; c) Creates an Administrative Permit to authorize rentals which comply with the ordinance and allows approval of a d

This document is about a proposed ordinance for short-term rentals in Humboldt County. The ordinance would create regulations for renting out residences for short periods of time. It would establish criteria for operating these rentals, create permits for compliance, and set a limit on the number of units allowed in certain areas. The document includes attachments with more information, such as housing data and draft versions of the ordinance. The Planning Commission is reviewing the ordinance and has requested feedback and amendments before a public hearing. The document also mentions comments from the public, which have focused on issues such as housing availability and neighborhood concerns.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a sea shanty!

(Verse 1)
In the County of Humboldt, by the coastal shores,
The Planning and Building Department doth explore,
A workshop on an ordinance, short-term rentals to be,
Drafted and discussed, for all to see.

(Chorus)
Oh, the Workshop of October 5th, 2023,
Deliberate and comment, with guidance given free,
From the Planning Commission, oh, a crucial task,
To shape the ordinance, for the present and the past.

(Verse 2)
The draft creates two tiers, for rentals near and far,
Partial rentals, or the whole unit, it surely does mar,
Performance criteria to regulate the scene,
Short-term rentals operating as a gleam.

(Chorus)
Oh, the Workshop of October 5th, 2023,
Deliberate and comment, with guidance given free,
From the Planning Commission, oh, a crucial task,
To shape the ordinance, for the present and the past.

(Verse 3)
An Administrative Permit, to authorize with care,
Deviation from standards, discretion they’ll bear,
Around Humboldt Bay, a cap will be set,
Limiting the units, don’t you fret.

(Chorus)
Oh, the Workshop of October 5th, 2023,
Deliberate and comment, with guidance given free,
From the Planning Commission, oh, a crucial task,
To shape the ordinance, for the present and the past.

(Verse 4)
Both inland and coastal zones, will feel the effect,
Sections amended, as the ordinance directs,
Environmental review, ‘tis exempt from CEQA,
Airey code it passes, without delay.

(Chorus)
Oh, the Workshop of October 5th, 2023,
Deliberate and comment, with guidance given free,
From the Planning Commission, oh, a crucial task,
To shape the ordinance, for the present and the past.

(Outro)
So, gather ‘round, Planning Commission strong,
With questions and comments, they’ll work ‘til dawn,
To perfect the ordinance, for all to see,
In the County of Humboldt, by the coastal sea.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportStaff ReportAttachment 2 - Housing & STR Data 9.21.23Attachment 2 - Housing & STR data Hum Bay Area 9.21.23Attachment 3 - STRO powerpoint 9.21.23Attachment 4 - STR_DensityAttachment 4 - STR_LocationAttachment 5 - Draft Short-term Rental Ordinance_inland 9.15.23Attachment 6 - Draft Short-term Rental Ordinance_coastal 9.22.23Attachment 7 - Chapter 2 Administration, Procedures, Amendments and Enforcement proposed amendments 8.2.23Attachment 8A - Post Workshop - Housing Stock & CapAttachment 8B - Post Workshop - Neighborhood ConcernAttachment 8C - Post Workshop - MiscellaneousAttachment 9A - Pre Workshop - AOBAttachment 9B - Pre Workshop - Housing Stock and CapAttachment 9C - Pre Workshop - Neighborhood ConcernsAttachment 9D - Pre Workshop - Miscellaneous


G. PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. Patient 2 Patient, Inc.; Conditional Use Permit and Special Permit Record Number

This document is about a proposed project in Humboldt County, California. Patient 2 Patient, Inc. is seeking a permit to relocate and expand their cannabis cultivation activities on a 361-acre parcel of land. The project consists of two parts: Part 1 involves remediation and restoration of land disturbance associated with previous cannabis cultivation, and Part 2 involves the development of outdoor cannabis cultivation in greenhouses. The project is subject to certain conditions and has undergone an environmental review. The Planning Commission is recommended to adopt a resolution approving the permits with the recommended conditions. There are concerns about traffic and the timing of the development, and alternatives are presented for consideration. Various attachments, including maps and reports, are included with the document.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an insane conspiracy theory!

Insane Conspiracy Theory: The Cultivation of Cannibalistic Plants

Based on the information provided, it is clear that the County of Humboldt is planning to approve a Conditional Use Permit and Special Permit for Patient 2 Patient, Inc. to relocate and expand their cannabis cultivation activities on a 361-acre parcel in the Wood Ranch area. However, beneath the surface of this seemingly innocent proposal lies a sinister conspiracy.

According to the documents, the project involves the remediation and restoration of approximately 6.7 acres of land disturbance associated with seven discrete areas historically used for cannabis cultivation. But what if there is more to this remediation process than meets the eye? What if these cannabis cultivation sites were not just used for growing marijuana, but for something far more disturbing?

My conspiracy theory posits that the cannabis cultivated on these seven sites was not intended for recreational or medicinal use, but rather as a cover for the growth of carnivorous, man-eating plants. These plants, genetically engineered in top-secret laboratories, have been thriving in the Humboldt County wilderness, feeding on unsuspecting individuals who stumble upon their sinister plots.

The proposed relocation and expansion of cultivation activities on the 361-acre parcel is not merely a continuation of the cannabis operation, but a strategic plan to increase the population of these carnivorous plants. The 86,000 square feet of outdoor cannabis cultivation in greenhouses is the perfect disguise for the growth of these insidious plants.

The County of Humboldt, along with Patient 2 Patient, Inc., is complicit in this conspiracy. By approving the permits and allowing the relocation and expansion of cultivation, they are furthering the diabolical plan of these man-eating plants. The planning commission, the planning and building department, and all other involved parties are part of a larger, hidden agenda.

But why would anyone want to grow man-eating plants? The answer lies in the sinister realm of human sacrifice. It is believed that there is a secret cult operating in Humboldt County, using these carnivorous plants to carry out their dark rituals. The innocent individuals who fall victim to the plants’ appetites are sacrificial offerings to appease the sinister forces that govern this cult.

To maintain secrecy and avoid suspicion, these cultists have cleverly disguised their activities as a cannabis cultivation operation. The legality and cultural acceptance of marijuana in the area provide the perfect cover for their nefarious deeds.

In summary, the County of Humboldt’s approval of the Conditional Use Permit and Special Permit for Patient 2 Patient, Inc. is not just a matter of expanding cannabis cultivation. It is part of a conspiracy to grow man-eating plants and facilitate dark rituals carried out by a secret cult. Beware the innocent-looking cannabis farms of Humboldt County, for they may conceal something far more sinister.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - MMRP with Subst Mit MeasuresAttachment 1C - Site PlansetAttachment 1D - Revised Cultivation Area VerificationAttachment 2 - Vicinity MapAttachment 3 - Draft ISMND (sans appendices)Attachment 3A - ISMND Appendix 1 - App AQ_CalEEMod Output FilesAttachment 3B - ISMND Appendix 2 - Biological Resources Assessment_RinconAttachment 3C - ISMND Appendix 3 - Energy BudgetAttachment 3D - ISMND Appendix 4 - Noise Measurements and CalcsAttachment 3E - ISMND Appendix 5 - Draft Cleanup, Restoration, and Monitoring Plan (CRMP) - JacobsenAttachment 3F - ISMND Appendix 6 - Redway APN 214-142-009 Aquatic Resources DelineationAttachment 3G - ISMND Appendix 7 - Young Aquatic Impact Assessment 3.4.22Attachment 3H - ISMND Appendix 8 - Wood Ranch Wetland Delineation ReportAttachment 3I - ISMND Appendix 9 - Hydrological Connectivity Report 12.30.2022Attachment 3J - ISMND Appendix 10 - P2P 2021 Botany ReportAttachment 3K - ISMND Appendix 11 - Water management plan Woods RanchAttachment 4- Evidence in Support of Required FindingsAttachment 4C - Wood Ranch Road Historic Vehicle Use (SL rev)Attachment 5A - Table Summarizing Referral Agency Comments and RecommendationsAttachment 5B - CEQA-2023-0216-R1_Wood_Ranch_Cannabis_MND_LTR_FINALAttachment 5C - Comments re ISMND Wood Ranch Cannabis Cultivation ProjectAttachment 6A - Pubic Comment - Glen HassAttachment 6B - Pubic Comment - Marcia MurphyAttachment 7 - Watershed Map


H. ITEMS PULLED FROM CONSENT

I. REPORT FROM PLANNER

J. PLANNING COMMISSION DISCUSSION ITEMS


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