LoCOBot / @ 5:30 p.m. / Agendizer

Humboldt County Planning Commission
Jan. 18, 2024, 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 October 19, 2023, Action Summary.

2. Review and approval of the October 26, 2023, Action Summary

3. Review and approval of the November 2, 2023, Action Summary.

4. Review and approval of the November 16, 2023, Action Summary.

5. Ghost Ship Investments, LLC, Conditional Use Permit Assessor Parcel Number: 316-071-004 Record No.

The County of Humboldt is discussing a Conditional Use Permit for a cannabis cultivation project by Ghost Ship Investments, LLC. The project involves cultivating cannabis in outdoor and mixed-light spaces totaling 47,700 square feet, along with a nursery area in three hoop houses. Water for cultivation is sourced from a permitted groundwater well, and there are storage tanks with 147,000 gallons of water available. Drying and processing of the cannabis occur on-site. The project is located in the Korbel area and is subject to certain conditions and regulations. The Planning Commission is recommended to approve the Conditional Use Permit.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a movie trailer!

[Opening shots of a picturesque forest with misty mountains in the background]

Narrator (Voiceover): In a county known for its lush landscapes and hidden wonders…

[Cut to shots of cannabis plants growing in a farm]

Narrator (Voiceover): …a new venture begins, where cannabis cultivation meets bylaws and regulations.

[Quick shots of meetings, documents, and legal discussions]

Narrator (Voiceover): Ghost Ship Investments, LLC has applied for a Conditional Use Permit…

[Cut to shots of the Ghost Ship Investments building and the surrounding area]

Narrator (Voiceover): …for a massive cannabis cultivation project in the heart of Humboldt County.

[The screen transitions to a map showing the location of the project]

Narrator (Voiceover): Located in the Korbel area, at 33818 State Highway 299…

[Cut to shots of the beautiful landscape surrounding the project]

Narrator (Voiceover): …this sprawling property will become home to 47,700 square feet of pre-existing cannabis cultivation.

[Cut to shots of the cultivation area, including hoop houses and greenhouses]

Narrator (Voiceover): With outdoor and mixed-light cultivation areas, as well as propagation and nursery hoop houses…

[Cut to shots of water tanks and irrigation systems]

Narrator (Voiceover): …the project harnesses water from a permitted groundwater well, utilizing a series of tanks to store the precious resource.

[Quick shots of the drying and processing facilities]

Narrator (Voiceover): Onsite, drying and curing takes place in a multi-use shed, while processing occurs offsite at a licensed facility.

[Cut to shots of generators and the power infrastructure]

Narrator (Voiceover): Power is supplied by generators, with plans to transition to renewable energy in the coming years.

[Cut to shots of the team working on the project, reviewing documents]

Narrator (Voiceover): But as they navigate through the planning process…

[Quick shots of meetings, debates, and concerned community members]

Narrator (Voiceover): …they face challenges, concerns, and scrutiny from the Planning Commission and local agencies.

[Build-up of tension, with cuts to intense conversations and heated debates]

Narrator (Voiceover): Will they be able to overcome the roadblocks and secure the necessary approvals?

[Cut to shots of beautiful landscapes, showcasing the natural beauty of Humboldt County]

Narrator (Voiceover): Step into a world where counterculture clashes with bureaucracy…

[Final dramatic shots of the meeting room, with the Planning Commission ready to make their decision]

Narrator (Voiceover): …in “County of Humboldt: Ghost Ship Investments, LLC”.

[Title screen with release date and contact information]

Narrator (Voiceover): Coming to theaters near you on January 18, 2024.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - Cultivation Operations PlanAttachment 1C - Additional Project InformationAttachment 1D - Addendum to Cultivation Operation PlanAttachment 1E - Site PlanAttachment 2 - Location MapAttachment 3 - CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - Applicant's Evidence in Support of Required FindingsAttachment 4A - Final Streambed Alteration AgreementAttachment 4B - Amended Final Streambed Alteration AgreementAttachment 4C - Erosion Remediation MemorandumAttachment 4D - Notice of IntentAttachment 4E - Site Management PlanAttachment 4F - Hydrological Well ReportAttachment 4G - Encroachment PermitAttachment 4H - Well Log and Completion ReportAttachment 4I - LSAA Completion ReportAttachment 4J - No LSAA neededAttachment 5 - Referral Agency Comments & RecommendationsAttachment 5A - DEH ResponseAttachment 5B - Public Works, Land Use Division ResponseAttachment 5C - CAL FIRE ResponseAttachment 5D - CAL TRANSAttachment 5E - Northern Humboldt Union School Dist.Attachment 5F - CDFW


6. Organic Humboldt, LLC. Conditional Use Permit Assessor’s Parcel Numbers: 214-233-002-000 Record Numbers

The County of Humboldt is having a meeting to discuss a permit request from Organic Humboldt, LLC for cannabis cultivation. The permit is for a total of 59,428 square feet of commercial cannabis cultivation. The plants will be delivered to the site and drying and processing will occur onsite. The power for the operation comes from a generator, but it is recommended that they switch to renewable energy by 2026. The Planning Commission will review the request and make a decision. There are no major concerns or issues with the project. The project is located in the Redway area and is subject to certain conditions and regulations. The project has been reviewed by various agencies and there are no significant environmental or safety concerns. The applicant has provided supporting documentation and the project is consistent with county regulations. The Planning Commission will consider the recommendations of staff and make a decision.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Dungeons & Dragons campaign!

Title: The Cultivation Chronicles: Trials of Organic Humboldt

Campaign Description:
In the County of Humboldt lies a hidden realm known as Redway, where a group called Organic Humboldt seeks to establish their cannabis cultivation empire. However, they must first navigate through the bureaucratic maze of the Planning Commission and obtain a Conditional Use Permit. As adventurers, your mission is to aid Organic Humboldt in their quest, facing challenges and making decisions along the way that will determine their fate.

Adventure Summary:
The adventurers will meet with the representatives of Organic Humboldt, who are seeking assistance in obtaining a Conditional Use Permit. They explain their plan to cultivate cannabis on a property located at 1520 Wood Ranch Road, which involves 37,428 square feet of outdoor cultivation and 22,000 square feet of mixed-light cultivation. They have secured irrigation water from permitted groundwater wells and possess existing facilities for drying and processing.

However, obstacles stand in their way. The adventurers must help Organic Humboldt navigate the complex requirements set by the Planning Commission, including compliance with the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance. They must also address concerns related to water resources, geologic suitability, timber conversion, security, safety, and tribal consultation.

As the adventurers assist Organic Humboldt, they may encounter opposition from rival cannabis cultivators, environmental activists, or even corrupt officials who wish to exploit the lucrative cannabis industry. The adventurers must make choices that affect the outcome of the campaign, such as whether to forge alliances, gather evidence of corruption, or negotiate compromises with various stakeholders.

Ultimately, the success of Organic Humboldt will depend on the adventurers’ ability to satisfy the Planning Commission’s conditions of approval, overcome challenges, and navigate a vibrant world filled with political intrigue, environmental concerns, and underground criminal networks.

Key NPCs:
1. Vincent Patterson and Paula Carroll - Owners of the property and partners in Organic Humboldt, they seek the adventurers’ assistance in obtaining the Conditional Use Permit and establishing their cannabis cultivation operation.
2. Nate Madsen (Agent) - A lawyer from Rain & Zepp, PLC, representing Organic Humboldt and providing legal guidance.
3. Portia Saucedo - Associate Planner from the Planning and Building Department, who informs the adventurers about the requirements and conditions for approval.
4. Rival Cultivators - Competing cannabis cultivators who may try to sabotage Organic Humboldt’s efforts and sabotage their chances of obtaining the permit.
5. Environmental Activists - Local activists who may have concerns about the impact of the cultivation on water resources, wildlife, and the environment.
6. Corrupt Officials - Authorities within the Planning Commission who may be open to bribery or coercion, leading to potential conflicts and moral dilemmas for the adventurers.

Key Locations:
1. Redway - The town where Organic Humboldt is located, filled with colorful characters, shops, and potential allies or enemies.
2. Organic Humboldt’s Property - The site of the planned cannabis cultivation, where adventurers will inspect the existing facilities, irrigation system, and discuss security measures.
3. Planning and Building Department - The bureaucratic heart of the campaign, where adventurers will attend the Planning Commission meeting and engage in negotiations with officials.
4. Coon Creek and Hooker Creek - The nearby streams that serve as water sources for Organic Humboldt’s cultivation, with potential environmental and hydrological challenges.
5. Hidden Processing Facilities - Discovering hidden processing facilities operated by rival cultivators or corrupt officials may become a key objective for the adventurers.

Quest Objectives:
1. Gather Evidence: Investigate potential corruption within the Planning Commission and gather evidence to support Organic Humboldt’s case.
2. Forge Alliances: Seek support from environmental activists, tribes, or other influential figures to strengthen Organic Humboldt’s position.
3. Navigate the Permit Process: Assist Organic Humboldt in completing the necessary paperwork, addressing concerns, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
4. Overcome Challenges: Face obstacles such as rival cultivators, environmental impacts, and logistical hurdles to secure the Conditional Use Permit.
5. Protect Organic Humboldt: Ensure the safety and security of Organic Humboldt’s employees, facilities, and equipment through proper planning and strategy.

In Conclusion:
“The Cultivation Chronicles: Trials of Organic Humboldt” is a campaign that combines the intricacies of bureaucratic processes, environmental concerns, and political intrigue with the fantasy setting of Dungeons and Dragons. The adventurers’ choices will shape the outcome of Organic Humboldt’s quest to establish a successful cannabis cultivation operation, and their actions will have far-reaching consequences for the County of Humboldt.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B- Operations PlanAttachment 1C- Site PlanAttachment 2 - Location MapsAttachment 3 - 12312 CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - Applicant's Evidence in Support of Required Findings 12312Attachment 4A - Well Assessment - 002739Attachment 4B - Well Assessment - 010668Attachment 4C - LSAA Notif and Operation of Law_Attachment 4D- WRPPAttachment 4E - Justification for Onsite Relocation 04.25.19Attachment 4F - Road EvaluationAttachment 4G - 12312 ISO Water DiversionAttachment 4H - Original CAVAttachment 4I - Applicant's CAV ResponseAttachment 4J - Revised CAV 10.02.19Attachment 4k - County Cultivation Area Verification Calculation Correction 12.27.2023Attachment 5 - Referral Agency Comments and RecommendationsAttachment 5A - California Department of Fish and WildlifeAttachment 5B - Humboldt County Division of Environmental HealthAttachment 5C - California Division of Water Rights


7. Lost Coast Cannabis, LLC Conditional Use Permit Assessor’s Parcel Numbers: 220-272-022 Record Numbers

This is a document discussing the approval of a conditional use permit for a cannabis cultivation project in the Whitethorn area. The project includes an outdoor cultivation area and a nursery, with a total of 18,953 square feet. The project will use approximately 175,960 gallons of water annually from a nearby source and will store 176,000 gallons of water for irrigation. The project also uses solar panels for energy, with backup from a propane generator. The document provides details about the project’s location, zoning, environmental review, and other factors. The Planning Commission is recommended to approve the permit with certain conditions.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Star Trek fan fiction!

Title: Lost Coast Cannabis in the Final Frontier

Captain James T. Kirk sat in the captain’s chair on the bridge of the USS Enterprise, his eyes fixed on the view screen. They had just completed a mission on a distant planet and were now en route to Starbase 9 for a much-needed resupply. As they traveled through space, Kirk couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement. There was something special about this mission, something different.

“Captain,” came the voice of Lieutenant Uhura, the ship’s communications officer. “We’re receiving a message from the County of Humboldt on planet Earth.”

Kirk raised an eyebrow. “On screen, Lieutenant.”

The view screen flickered to life, displaying a woman in a suit standing in what looked like a government office. “Captain Kirk, I am Holly Carter, agent for Lost Coast Cannabis, LLC. We have a proposition for you.”

Kirk leaned forward in his chair, intrigued. “Go on, Ms. Carter.”

Carter explained the details of the Lost Coast Cannabis project, the Conditional Use Permit for their outdoor commercial cannabis cultivation. She outlined the estimated water usage, power sources, and environmental considerations. Kirk listened intently, his mind racing with possibilities.

“And why do you need the USS Enterprise for this project, Ms. Carter?” Kirk asked, once she had finished.

Carter smiled. “Captain, the Lost Coast Cannabis team believes that the advanced technology and resources of the Enterprise would greatly benefit our cultivation efforts. We aim to create a sustainable and environmentally friendly operation, and we believe your ship can help us achieve that goal.”

Kirk nodded, his interest piqued. “I see. And what’s in it for us?”

Carter’s smile widened. “Captain, we would offer you a significant share in the profits from the cultivation and distribution of our cannabis products. We believe this partnership could be mutually beneficial.”

Kirk considered the offer for a moment before responding. “Ms. Carter, I appreciate the opportunity you’ve presented us with. I will discuss it with my senior officers and get back to you.”

Carter nodded. “Of course, Captain. Take your time. I look forward to hearing from you.”

The view screen went blank, leaving Kirk deep in thought. He knew there were risks involved in partnering with a cannabis cultivation project, but he also saw the potential benefits. The Enterprise had always been at the forefront of exploration and pushing boundaries, and this opportunity seemed to align with that spirit.

Kirk activated the ship-wide intercom. “Attention all senior officers, report to the conference room for a meeting. We have a decision to make.”

As the officers gathered in the conference room, Kirk briefed them on the offer from Lost Coast Cannabis. The room buzzed with discussion and debate, each officer offering their perspective. After much deliberation, Kirk made his decision.

“Set a course for Earth, warp factor 7,” Kirk commanded. “We’re going to give Lost Coast Cannabis the opportunity they’re asking for. Let’s see what this partnership can do.”

With that, the USS Enterprise changed its course, setting a new trajectory towards planet Earth. It was a bold move, a leap into the unknown, but Kirk and his crew were ready for the challenge. Together with Lost Coast Cannabis, they would embark on a new adventure, pushing the boundaries of what was possible.

And with the power of the Enterprise and the ingenuity of Lost Coast Cannabis, they would boldly grow where no one had grown before.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - Operations PlanAttachment 1C - Site PlanAttachment 2 - Location MapAttachment 3 - CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - Applicant's Evidence in Support of FindingsAttachment 4A - Water RightAttachment 4B - LSAAAttachment 4C - Road EvaluationAttachment 4D - Site Managment PlanAttachment 4E - Less Than 3 Acre Conversion ExemptionAttachment 5 - Referral Agency Comments


8. Bush - Parcel Map Subdivision Application Number PLN-2023-18104 Assessor Parcel Number (APN) 204-152-041 250 Chuckhole Lane, Hydesville area A Minor Subdivision of an approximately 6.3-acre parcel into two parcels of approximately 3.8 and 2.5 acres. The parcel is currently developed with an approximately 2,200 square foot single family residence and accessory structures that will remain on proposed Parcel 1, and an approximately 1,620 square foot Accessory Dwelling Unit and accessory structures

The County of Humboldt is discussing a proposal to divide a 6.3-acre piece of land into two smaller parcels. One would have a house and other buildings on it, while the other would have a separate dwelling unit and other structures. The water supply for the area is provided by the Hydesville Community Water District, and wastewater treatment is handled on-site. The project has received an exception from CALFIRE regarding the length and width requirements for the road. The Planning Commission is recommended to approve the subdivision with certain conditions. The project location is in the Hydesville area, and the current zoning is Agriculture General. Environmental review has already been conducted and no additional review is required. The project has been referred to several agencies for their recommendations. If you have any questions, you can contact Michael Holtermann, the Associate Planner.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a horror story!

In the quiet town of Hydesville, nestled in the County of Humboldt, lies a property with a dark secret. On January 18, 2024, the Planning Commission gathered for a meeting to discuss the Bush - Parcel Map Subdivision. Little did they know, this seemingly routine application would lead them to a horrifying discovery.

Ronny and Nancy Bush were the owners of the 6.3-acre parcel located on Chuckhole Lane. Their intention was to subdivide the land into two parcels, one measuring approximately 3.8 acres, and the other 2.5 acres. The existing structures on the property included a 2,200 square foot single-family residence and various accessory structures that would remain on Parcel 1, and a 1,620 square foot Accessory Dwelling Unit on Parcel 2.

As the Planning Commission reviewed the proposal, they became aware of certain exceptions that had been granted by CALFIRE. The dead-end road length exceeded the allowable limit by 310 feet, but CALFIRE had approved an exception. Similarly, the road width did not meet CALFIRE standards, but an exception had been granted as well. Despite these exceptions, the project was still subject to the State Fire Safe requirements, including maintaining 30-foot setbacks from all property lines to ensure defensible space.

Another noteworthy aspect of the property was its location within the Alquist-Priolo Special Studies Zone. This meant that a Fault Evaluation Report would typically be required for any future development. However, the existing structures were exempt from this requirement, as they were not considered future development. The Planning Commission imposed a condition of approval that required the conveyance of rights for further residential development to the County of Humboldt until a Fault Evaluation Report had been completed for any areas within the Alquist-Priolo Fault Hazard Zone that would be targeted for future development.

As the meeting progressed, it became apparent that there was more to this property than met the eye. The Northwest Information Center recommended an archaeological survey to be conducted for the property, even though no development was proposed. This condition of approval aimed to ensure that any future development on the resulting parcels would be subject to a Cultural Resources Survey.

The Bush - Parcel Map Subdivision seemed to have all the necessary approvals and conditions in place. However, as the Planning Commission delved deeper into the history of the property, they uncovered chilling details. Local folklore spoke of strange occurrences and eerie events that had taken place on the land.

Whispers of a haunted past started to circulate among the residents of Hydesville. Some spoke of ghostly apparitions roaming the property, while others claimed to have heard disembodied voices echoing through the night. The town’s dark secrets were slowly coming to light, and the Bush - Parcel Map Subdivision was unknowingly unraveling the horrors that lay hidden.

Rumors of a long-forgotten tragedy began to resurface. As the Planning Commission pored over the records, they discovered that the property had once been the site of a gruesome murder-suicide. A family had lived there years ago, but their peaceful existence was shattered when a deranged father took the lives of his wife and children before ending his own.

The Planning Commission soon realized that they were in a race against time. The innocence of the Bush - Parcel Map Subdivision had been shattered, and the spirits of the past were restless. Strange occurrences started to plague the members of the Commission. Objects moved inexplicably, cold drafts swept through the room even when the windows were closed, and whispers filled the air during their meetings.

As the day of the final decision on the subdivision drew near, the members of the Planning Commission found themselves tormented by nightmarish visions and unexplainable phenomena. They were trapped in a web of fear, unable to escape the clutches of the property’s dark past.

On the night of January 17, 2024, the eve of the fateful decision, the Planning Commission gathered one last time. The atmosphere was heavy with unease as they debated the future of the Bush - Parcel Map Subdivision. The horror that had plagued their meetings had reached its peak, and the spirits of the past were hungry for vengeance.

In the early hours of January 18, 2024, just before the meeting was set to begin, a blood-curdling scream echoed through the halls of the Planning and Building Department. One by one, the members of the Planning Commission fell victim to the malevolent forces that had been unleashed.

The Bush - Parcel Map Subdivision remained incomplete, forever tainted by the dark history of the land. It became a cautionary tale, a reminder that some secrets are best left undisturbed. The County of Humboldt would forever bear the mark of this horrifying tale, a testament to the power of the supernatural and the consequences of meddling with the unknown.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - Public Works Referral CommentsAttachment 1C - Tentative Subdivision MapAttachment 2 - Location MapAttachment 3 - Applicant's Evidence in Support of the Required FindingsAttachment 3A - CalFIRE ExemptionsAttachment 4 - Referral Agency Comments and RecommendationsAttachment 4A - Northwest Information Center


F. OLD BUSINESS

1. Sign Ordinance Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN) 000-000-000 Record No.

This is a document about a proposed change to the sign ordinance in Humboldt County. The change would create new standards for the development, size, and location of signs and billboards. The goal is to protect scenic areas, preserve sensitive habitat areas, and ensure signs are compatible with state requirements. The document includes details about the specific sections of the ordinance that would be amended and the recommendations for adoption by the Planning Commission. The document also discusses the impacts on the environment and the public input that has been received.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Rodney Dangerfield joke!

“I went to a planning commission meeting the other day in Humboldt County. They were talking about amending the zoning ordinance for signs and billboards. I said, ‘Hey, have you seen my face? That’s the biggest sign of all, and it ain’t getting any smaller!’”

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Inland Sign OrdinanceAttachment 2 - (No Strikethrough) Inland Sign OrdinanceAttachment 3 - Coastal Sign OrdinanceAttachment 4 - Draft Resolution (Inland)Attachment 5 - Draft Resolution (Coastal)Attachment 6 - Public Comment


G. ITEMS PULLED FROM CONSENT

H. REPORT FROM PLANNER

I. PLANNING COMMISSION DISCUSSION ITEMS


Lately on LoCO

© 2024 Lost Coast Communications Contact: news@lostcoastoutpost.com.