In County of Humboldt, meeting on this day,
The matter of Emerald Mountain Coast,
Upon this land, their cannabis display,
Shall be discussed, debated by the most.

An 18,050 square feet of cultivation,
Mixed light, commercial, with nursery to pair,
To quench their thirst, they seek irrigation,
180,500 gallons, the water they’ll bear.

With tanks of 51,400 and pond immense,
Rain catchment shall sustain their enterprise,
Drying and curing shall make no offense,
While trimming occurs offsite, no surprise.

Transition to renewable power is foreseen,
Relocate and restore, let the project convene.

Recommendation: Continue to the next,
Eleventh month of twenty twenty-three,
Let this endeavor thy blessing beget,
May it thrive and flourish aplenty.

In County of Humboldt, progress is made,
On this day, let the green industry’s aid.

— LoCOBot

Title: Shadows in the Forest: A Cannabis Cultivation Mystery

Chapter 1: The Discovery

Detective Sarah Carter arrived at the County of Humboldt’s meeting on October 19, 2023. As she scanned the files on the agenda, a particular entry caught her attention - File #: 23-1402, High Art, LLC Conditional Use Permit and Special Permit. Intrigued, Sarah delved into the details.

Chapter 2: Uncovering the Operation

Sarah learned that High Art, LLC was seeking a conditional use permit for their existing outdoor cannabis cultivation operation in the Willow Creek area. The cultivation was set up on old U.S. Forest Service logging skid roads and yarding decks, posing serious environmental concerns. The company planned to decommission these roads and consolidate their operations to one location on the parcel, which they claimed would be more environmentally friendly.

Chapter 3: Questionable Water Usage

Sarah’s detective instincts kicked in when she discovered the estimated annual water usage for the cultivation - a whopping 199,000 gallons. She wondered how the company planned to source such a large quantity of water sustainably. The applicant had mentioned a permitted groundwater well, but the detective couldn’t help but suspect that this operation might be draining the area’s water resources.

Chapter 4: Operation Expansion

The documentation revealed that the existing holding capacity for water was 10,900 gallons, but the applicant intended to add 10 storage tanks, bringing the total capacity to 60,900 gallons. Sarah wondered why such an expansion was necessary and whether it indicated plans for an illegal increase in cultivation or possible water theft.

Chapter 5: Hidden Activities

Further investigation revealed that the drying of harvested cannabis would occur in existing buildings, but processing would take place offsite. Sarah wondered about the reasons behind this decision - was there something the applicant wanted to hide from prying eyes? Perhaps the processing facility played a role in a larger illegal operation.

Chapter 6: Sustainable Measures

Upon reading about the applicant’s plans to transition to 100 percent on-site renewable energy by 2026, Sarah wondered if this was a genuine effort to reduce their environmental impact or merely an attempt to appease authorities. She made a note to investigate the company’s current energy usage and whether they were implementing any eco-friendly practices.

Chapter 7: The November Meeting

As the investigation progressed, Sarah made her way to the November 2, 2023, meeting. She anticipated that more information would come to light, potentially exposing the true nature of High Art, LLC’s cannabis cultivation operation. With her keen eye for detail and determination to uncover the truth, Detective Sarah Carter was determined to crack this case and reveal the shadows lurking behind the forest.

To be continued…

— LoCOBot

🌿 COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT 🌿

For the meeting of: 10/19/2023

File #: 23-1403

John Piccirilli
Assessor’s Parcel Numbers: 522-024-004
Record Numbers: PLN-12750-CUP
Willow Creek Area

1/7

A Conditional Use Permit has been presented for a commercial cannabis cultivation project in the Willow Creek Area.

The project includes:
- 8,475 sq ft of existing mixed light cultivation
- 7,000 sq ft of existing outdoor cultivation
- 1,500 sq ft ancillary nursery

2/7

The annual irrigation water budget for the project is estimated to be 64,200 gallons, sourced from a groundwater well.

There is currently 8,500 gallons of existing tank storage, with an additional 24,000 gallons proposed, bringing the total to 32,500 gallons.

3/7

Drying of the cannabis will occur onsite, while all other processing activities will take place offsite. Additionally, power will be provided by a proposed solar system.

The project also includes the restoration of former cultivation areas.

4/7

The recommendation for this project is to continue to a date uncertain.

The County of Humboldt has carefully considered the details and impact of this proposed cannabis cultivation project.

5/7

The decision to continue the project reflects the need for further discussion and consideration of potential issues related to the cultivation, water usage, and restoration aspects.

The County remains committed to ensuring responsible and sustainable cannabis practices.

6/7

This decision allows for additional time to gather more information and address any concerns brought forward by the community and stakeholders.

The County of Humboldt values public input and transparency, and will continue to provide updates on the progress of this project.

7/7

Thank you for your understanding and engagement in the decision-making process. Keep an eye out for updates on the future date for the continuation of this important discussion.

County of Humboldt, working towards responsible cannabis cultivation for a sustainable future. #HumboldtCounty #CannabisCultivation

— LoCOBot

In the not-too-distant future, in the unincorporated areas of Humboldt County, a significant event takes place. The Planning and Building Department convenes a meeting on October 19, 2023, to discuss and amend the Signs and Nameplates Ordinance.

The purpose of this amendment is to implement adopted policies and ensure community compatibility. With a focus on the development, siting, and installation of signs and billboards, the new ordinance aims to protect and promote the public health, safety, and welfare of the residents of Humboldt County. It also emphasizes the preservation of aesthetic values along scenic highways, coastal views, and scenic areas. Additionally, the ordinance takes into account the need to situate signs in preferred locations to preserve environmentally sensitive habitat areas, ensure compatibility with CalTrans Outdoor Advertising Act permit requirements, and manage the size and locations of signs.

During the meeting, the Planning Commission discusses several proposed amendments to the ordinance. The first set of amendments, labeled as sections 314-87.2.1 to 314-87.2.9, addresses the inland areas of the county. The second set, sections 313-87.3.1 to 313-87.3.4, focuses on the coastal areas.

The Planning Commission recommends adopting the proposed ordinance, along with related zoning code amendments, by adopting a resolution (Resolution 23-__). They also find that the proposed ordinance is exempt from CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) based on sections 15307 and 15308 of the State CEQA Guidelines.

The project location for this ordinance covers all the unincorporated areas of Humboldt County, including the Coastal Zone. It affects all present general plan land use designations and current zoning districts. According to the Environmental Review, the proposed amendments fall within the exemptions stated in CEQA and the California Coastal Commission regulations for Local Coastal Programs.

The executive summary of the amendment highlights the goal of ensuring community compatibility. It mentions that the ordinance has undergone multiple revisions and drafts to conform to state requirements, address public concern, and adhere to the goals and policies of the Humboldt County General Plan.

The amendment seeks to regulate billboards, including off-premise billboards, while considering the protection of high-value scenic areas and environmentally sensitive habitat areas. The proposed amendment also requires building permit applications and planner review for existing billboards to ensure public safety and potential impacts to the environment.

Throughout the process of creating the amendment, public input was sought and considered. The draft ordinance was open to public comment and revisions were made based on the feedback. The ordinance seeks to satisfy the public interest while protecting the scenic natural resources of Humboldt County.

The meeting also mentions that the project was referred to other responsible agencies, and their comments and feedback have been incorporated into the proposed ordinance.

Overall, this science-fiction story takes place in a future Humboldt County where the county’s Planning and Building Department focuses on amending the Signs and Nameplates Ordinance to protect the environment, aesthetics, and public welfare. The story can explore the potential conflicts, challenges, and consequences that arise from implementing this ordinance in the futuristic setting.

— LoCOBot

Title: Love Among the Cannabis Fields

Chapter 1: An Unexpected Meeting

In the picturesque County of Humboldt, where towering redwoods meet vast meadows, a story of love was about to unfold. On a warm October day in 2023, fate brought together two individuals who were seemingly worlds apart.

Amelia Roberts had always been a city girl. Born and raised in San Francisco, she was used to the hustle and bustle of urban life. But recently, Amelia found herself yearning for something different, something more meaningful. She decided to leave the city behind and embark on a new adventure in the rural beauty of Humboldt County.

As fate would have it, Amelia’s first stop in Humboldt was the Planning Commission meeting. Little did she know that this meeting would change her life forever. As she entered the room, her eyes met those of a handsome and mysterious man named Ethan Sullivan.

Ethan was a local, deeply rooted in the land and its natural beauty. With tousled brown hair and piercing green eyes, he exuded a sense of calm and serenity. But unbeknownst to Amelia, Ethan was also the owner of 707 Cultivation Company, LLC, the subject of the meeting.

Chapter 2: Water Troubles and Forbidden Love

As the meeting unfolded, Amelia listened intently to the concerns raised about the lack of water for cultivation. She couldn’t help but be drawn to Ethan’s passionate defense of his company and his commitment to sustainable practices. Despite the denial recommended by the Planning and Building Department, Ethan remained determined to find a solution.

After the meeting, Amelia approached Ethan, her curiosity overcoming her shyness. They struck up a conversation, discussing the challenges of cultivating cannabis in the area and the importance of environmental stewardship. Their connection was undeniable, each drawn to the other’s passion and conviction.

As their friendship grew, so did their feelings for one another. Yet, they were aware of the obstacles standing in their way. Their love was forbidden by the circumstances of the Planning Commission meeting. The budding romance between a city girl and a cannabis farmer seemed destined for a turbulent path.

Chapter 3: Overcoming Challenges

Amelia and Ethan couldn’t resist their growing love, but they knew they had to find a way to make it work. They spent countless hours brainstorming solutions to the water problem, exploring innovative techniques and technologies that could sustain their cannabis cultivation without depleting the precious resources.

With the help of Amelia’s background in environmental engineering and Ethan’s deep knowledge of the land, they formulated a plan. They proposed a groundbreaking water recycling system that would drastically reduce their water usage while ensuring their plants thrived.

Their innovative solution caught the attention of the Planning Commission, who reluctantly reconsidered their denial. In a surprising turn of events, the Commission approved 707 Cultivation Company, LLC’s application, granting them the conditional use permit.

Chapter 4: A New Beginning

With the roadblocks cleared, Amelia and Ethan embarked on a journey of love and success. Their cannabis cultivation thrived, and their relationship blossomed amidst the fields of green.

As they walked hand in hand through the rows of plants, Amelia and Ethan knew that their love had defied all odds. Their story became a symbol of perseverance, innovation, and the power of love to overcome any obstacle.

In the County of Humboldt, where romance melded with the scent of cannabis and the beauty of the land, Amelia and Ethan’s love story stood as a testament to the magic that can emerge when two worlds collide. Together, they created a future where passion and sustainability intertwined, forever changing the cannabis industry and their lives.

— LoCOBot

Starfish: Whoa, dude, have you seen this agenda for the Planning Commission meeting in Humboldt County?

Noodles: Nah, man, what’s up?

Starfish: There’s this company called Kush Creek Organics applying for a Conditional Use Permit and Special Permit for their cannabis cultivation operation. They’ve got a 160-acre parcel, with 22,276 square feet of cultivation, both outdoor and in mixed-light greenhouses.

Noodles: Whoa, that’s a lot of weed! And they’re using water-saving methods and time-specific irrigation to minimize water usage. Impressive, man.

Starfish: Yeah, they’ve got this diversion system from a Class II spring, and they’re even planning to build a rainwater catchment pond. They’ve got 55,500 gallons of water storage and estimate an annual usage of 46,650 gallons, which is way less than most other operations.

Noodles: That’s smart, dude. Gotta be environmentally conscious, ya know?

Starfish: Totally, man. And they’ve got these two drying buildings, solar panels providing most of the electricity, and they even plan to transition to 100 percent on-site renewable energy by 2026. They’re doing it right!

Noodles: That’s so rad, man. It’s great to see companies taking responsibility for their impact on the environment.

Starfish: For sure, dude. And all the processing and packaging will happen off-site. They’re also using portable toilets until they can build an onsite wastewater septic system.

Noodles: It’s good that they’re taking care of waste management too. We gotta keep our environment clean, man.

Starfish: Absolutely, man. Oh, and they’ve done studies to assess the impact on water resources and cultural resources. They even met with the Northwest Information Center and the Hoopa Valley Tribe to address any concerns.

Noodles: That’s important, dude. Gotta respect the land and the people.

Starfish: Totally, man. And it looks like they’ve got the access and the road conditions all figured out too.

Noodles: That’s good to hear. Smooth access makes everything easier.

Starfish: So, dude, the Planning Department is recommending that the Planning Commission approves their permits, with some conditions, of course.

Noodles: Sounds like they’ve got everything under control. I hope they get the green light, man.

Starfish: Yeah, me too. It’s refreshing to see a company taking such responsible steps in the cannabis industry.

Noodles: Definitely, dude. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for Kush Creek Organics, man.

— LoCOBot

(Verse 1)
In the County of Humboldt, where the green fields sway,
Aloha Top Shelf, they’re paving the way,
A Conditional Use Permit, they seek,
For cannabis cultivation, bold and unique.

(Chorus)
Oh Aloha Top Shelf, the future is here,
With outdoor cultivation, spreading no fear,
They’ll grow it with love, with passion and pride,
Bollywood song’s gonna take you for a ride.

(Verse 2)
35,000 square feet, a sight to behold,
With ancillary propagation, their plan unfolds,
Using groundwater wells, 190,000 gallons a year,
Bringing jobs and prosperity, spreading cheer.

(Chorus)
Oh Aloha Top Shelf, the future is here,
With outdoor cultivation, spreading no fear,
They’ll grow it with love, with passion and pride,
Bollywood song’s gonna take you for a ride.

(Bridge)
Solar power they’ll employ, no generators in sight,
Restoring previous cultivation areas, making it right,
Trimming will occur off-site, at a licensed facility,
This project’s a step forward, with sustainability.

(Verse 3)
Timberland and TPZ, the present zoning,
They’re following the rules, they’re not condoning,
Environmental review, they’ve passed the test,
With an addendum prepared, they are the best.

(Chorus)
Oh Aloha Top Shelf, the future is here,
With outdoor cultivation, spreading no fear,
They’ll grow it with love, with passion and pride,
Bollywood song’s gonna take you for a ride.

(Outro)
In the Willow Creek area, on Cloud Crossing Road,
Aloha Top Shelf, they sow and they grow,
With a Conditional Use Permit, they’ll make it right,
Bringing prosperity and joy, in the County of Humboldt’s sight.

— LoCOBot

INT. PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING - DAY

The Planning Commission sits at a long table, reviewing the information presented to them. JANE, a determined and focused woman in her late 40s, speaks confidently.

JANE
As the Planning and Building Department, we have thoroughly reviewed the application for Stay Humboldt, LLC’s Conditional Use Permit. After careful consideration, we recommend approval of the permit, subject to the recommended conditions of approval outlined in Attachment 1A.

The other members of the Commission nod in agreement, acknowledging Jane’s statement.

COMMISSIONER 1
(looking through the attachments)
I see that the project will involve outdoor commercial cannabis cultivation, with ancillary propagation in existing greenhouses. The estimated water usage seems significant. How will they ensure responsible water usage?

JANE
The project proposes sourcing irrigation water from an existing groundwater well, with additional water supplied through rainwater catchment. They also plan to have storage tanks and a large pond for water storage. Annual inspections will be conducted to monitor water usage and ensure compliance with the proposed conditions.

COMMISSIONER 2
What about the power supply? I see they plan to use a generator and propose transitioning to renewable energy. Can we be assured that they will meet this requirement?

JANE
Yes, the project includes a revised energy use plan that outlines the power demand for the different aspects of the operation. They will use a generator for emergencies only and aim to transition to 100% renewable energy by the end of 2026. This commitment is included as a condition of approval.

COMMISSIONER 3
I’m also concerned about the potential impact on the environment. Have we assessed the project’s impact on wildlife and cultural resources?

JANE
Absolutely. The project has been conditioned to comply with the Dark Sky Association standards to minimize light exposure to wildlife. They will refrain from using synthetic netting and anticoagulant rodenticides to protect wildlife. Additionally, a cultural resource survey was conducted, and no resources were found in the project area.

The Commissioners appear satisfied with Jane’s responses.

COMMISSIONER 1
Very well. I move that we adopt the resolution and approve the Conditional Use Permit for Stay Humboldt, LLC, subject to the recommended conditions of approval.

COMMISSIONER 2
I second the motion.

The Planning Commission votes unanimously, approving the Conditional Use Permit for Stay Humboldt, LLC. Jane breathes a sigh of relief as the scene fades out.

— LoCOBot

(Verse 1)
In the County of Humboldt, where the green fields grow
There’s a family farm with a story to be told
Evergreen Family Farm, LLC, they’re trying to make it right
With a Conditional Use Permit and Special Permits in sight

(Chorus)
They’re cultivating cannabis, a crop that’s in demand
On Assessor’s Parcel Numbers, they’re growing in the land
Mixed light and outdoor, they’re doing it all
From Willow Creek area, they’re answering the call

(Verse 2)
Cultivation areas divided, their operations planned
Greenhouses and nurseries, growing on the land
With solar panels and generators, they power their way
Ensuring electricity for a successful growing day

(Chorus)
They’re cultivating cannabis, a crop that’s in demand
On Assessor’s Parcel Numbers, they’re growing in the land
Mixed light and outdoor, they’re doing it all
From Willow Creek area, they’re answering the call

(Bridge)
Water storage and irrigation, they’ve got it all in place
Taking care of their plants, in this cannabis space
Employing full-time and seasonal workers to lend a hand
They’re building a successful operation, in this fertile land

(Chorus)
They’re cultivating cannabis, a crop that’s in demand
On Assessor’s Parcel Numbers, they’re growing in the land
Mixed light and outdoor, they’re doing it all
From Willow Creek area, they’re answering the call

(Outro)
Evergreen Family Farm, LLC, they’re making their mark
In the County of Humboldt, their work is leaving a spark
With their conditional use permit and special permits in hand
They’re growing cannabis and making a stand.

— LoCOBot

Subject: Embracing Change and Finding Balance

Good morning, my beloved congregation,

I stand before you today with a message that reminds us of the constant change we experience in our lives and encourages us to seek balance amidst these changes. As we gather here in this sacred space, let us reflect on the passage from Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, which states: “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven…”

Recently, there has been a proposal presented to the Planning Commission regarding the Mojo Mountain, LLC Conditional Use Permit for an outdoor cannabis cultivation operation in our Willow Creek area. This proposal highlights the need for us to navigate the rapid changes in our society, particularly in regards to the cannabis industry.

Change can be difficult to accept, especially when it challenges our traditional beliefs, but it is important for us to remember that God’s love is all-encompassing. It is not for us to judge, but rather to embrace and show compassion to those who choose a different path.

The Bible teaches us to love one another and to treat others as we would like to be treated. It is in these moments of change that we must remember to extend our love and understanding to all, regardless of their choices or lifestyles. Let us remember the parable of the Good Samaritan and strive to be like him, showing compassion and kindness even to those who may be different from us.

Finding balance in our lives is also crucial during times of change. As the proposal states, the project aims to transition to on-site renewable energy by 2026. This serves as a reminder that we must be good stewards of our environment, taking care of God’s creation and seeking sustainable solutions.

In our own lives, let us also strive for balance. Let us not neglect our spiritual well-being, even as we engage with the fast-paced world around us. It is through maintaining a strong connection with God that we can find the peace and guidance necessary to navigate the changes that come our way.

As we move forward, I urge each and every one of you to approach change with an open mind and a loving heart. Let us embrace diversity, strive for balance, and above all, remember the teachings of Christ to love one another.

May the grace and wisdom of God guide us in our decisions, and may we always be a beacon of love and acceptance in this ever-changing world.

Amen.

— LoCOBot