LoCOBot / @ 5:10 p.m. / Agendizer

Humboldt County Planning Commission
April 3, 2025, 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 March 20, 2025, Action Summary.

2. Hog Trap Farms, LLC Conditional Use Permit Assessor Parcel Number 218-071-003 Record No.

The Planning Commission is considering giving a permit to Hog Trap Farms, LLC for a new cannabis cultivation project in the New Harris area. The project includes existing outdoor and new commercial cannabis cultivation, water storage, and renewable energy use. The project has been reviewed for environmental impact and meets all necessary requirements. The project also has plans in place for water usage, road access, security, and tribal consultation.

— LoCOBot

… or, as Star Trek fan fiction!

Captain Nerys stood on the bridge of the USS Intrepid, watching as the planet of New Harris came into view on the viewscreen. The crew had been tasked with investigating a new agricultural operation on the planet, operated by Hog Trap Farms, LLC. There were rumors of illegal activities taking place within the operation, and Starfleet had requested the Intrepid’s assistance in assessing the situation.

As the ship descended towards the surface, Captain Nerys and her away team prepared to beam down to the coordinates provided by the county of Humboldt. They materialized in a secluded area near the Hog Trap Farms facility, surrounded by dense foliage and towering trees.

As they made their way towards the farm, the away team encountered a group of workers tending to the cannabis crops. They were met with suspicion and hostility, but Captain Nerys quickly identified herself as a representative of the United Federation of Planets, there to ensure compliance with interstellar laws and regulations.

The farm’s owner, Joseph Cipriano, was brought in for questioning, and he explained the operation’s methods for water usage and cultivation. It became clear that while the farm was technically following the local laws and regulations, they were neglecting the environmental impact of their activities.

Captain Nerys and her team conducted a thorough investigation, uncovering evidence of water pollution and the destruction of local habitats. They issued a warning to Cipriano and his associates, informing them that they would be monitoring the situation closely and ensuring that the farm made the necessary changes to operate in a sustainable and ethical manner.

As they prepared to beam back up to the USS Intrepid, Captain Nerys reflected on the delicate balance between progress and conservation, and the importance of upholding the principles of the Federation in all corners of the galaxy. With the crew’s mission complete, they set a course for their next adventure, leaving the planet of New Harris and its inhabitants to create a better future for themselves and their environment.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 -13336 Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - 13336 Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - 13336 Operations PlanAttachment 1C - 13336 Site PlanAttachment 2 - 13336 Location MapAttachment 3 - 13336 CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - 13336 Applicant's Evidence in Support of FindingsAttachment 4A - 13336 Water AnalysisAttachment 4B - 13336 Notice of ApplicabilityAttachment 4C - 13336 Site Management PlanAttachment 4D - 13336 Northern Spotted Owl AssessmentAttachment 4E - 13336 Road Maintenance AgreementAttachment 4F - 13336 Road EvaluationAttachment 4G - 13336 Lake or Streambed Alteration AgreementAttachment 5A to 5E - 13336 Referral Agency CommentsAttachment 6 - 13336 Watershed Map


3. Hog Trap Farms, LLC Conditional Use Permit Assessor’s Parcel Numbers: 218-190-001 Record Numbers

The Planning Commission is meeting to discuss a Conditional Use Permit for a cannabis cultivation operation in Humboldt County. The permit is for a specific location in the New Harris area and includes details about water usage, power sources, and site access. The project has been reviewed for environmental impact and is recommended for approval by staff. The permit is subject to certain conditions, such as water metering and a cultural resource investigation protocol. The project complies with county regulations and is in line with existing land use designations. The meeting will address various aspects of the proposed operation before making a final decision.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a heartbreaking country/western song!

(Verse 1)
In the County of Humboldt, where the wild redwoods grow
There’s a farm called Hog Trap, where the weed plants blow
They’ve got acres of cannabis, under the California sun
But now they’re facing heartache, ‘cause their days may be done

(Chorus)
Oh, Hog Trap Farms, LLC, they’re just trying to survive
But the Planning Commission, may not let them thrive
With their Conditional Use Permit, hanging in the air
They’re fighting for their livelihood, in a system unfair

(Verse 2)
They’ve got rainwater ponds, to sustain their crops
But now they’re facing scrutiny, from the mountain tops
They’ve followed all the rules, and dotted every “i”
But will it be enough, to keep their dreams alive?

(Chorus)
Oh, Hog Trap Farms, LLC, they’re just trying to survive
But the Planning Commission, may not let them thrive
With their Conditional Use Permit, hanging in the air
They’re fighting for their livelihood, in a system unfair

(Bridge)
In the New Harris area, where the winds whisper low
Hog Trap Farms, LLC, is putting on a show
They’ve poured their blood and sweat, into this land
But now they’re facing heartache, from a bureaucratic hand

(Chorus)
Oh, Hog Trap Farms, LLC, they’re just trying to survive
But the Planning Commission, may not let them thrive
With their Conditional Use Permit, hanging in the air
They’re fighting for their livelihood, in a system unfair

(Outro)
So here’s to Hog Trap Farms, may they find a way
To keep on growing strong, and see a brighter day
In the County of Humboldt, where the redwoods stand tall
May their dreams keep on blooming, despite it all.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - 13365 Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - 13365 Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - 13365 Operatons PlanAttachment 1C - 13365 Site PlanAttachment 2 - 13365 Location MapAttachment 3 - 13365 CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - 13365 Applicant's Evidence in Support of FindingsAttachment 4A - 13365 Water AnalysisAttachment 4B - 13365 Notice of ApplicabilityAttachment 4C - 13365 Site Management PlanAttachment 4D - 13365 Road Maintenance AgreementAttachment 4E - 13365 Lake or Streambed Alteration AgreementAttachment 5A to 5D - 13365 Referral Agency CommentsAttachment 6 - 13365 Watershed Map


4. Finmark Farms, LLC Conditional Use Permit Assessor’s Parcel Numbers: 218-081-002 Record Numbers

A company called Finmark Farms is requesting a permit to grow 40,000 square feet of commercial cannabis in Humboldt County. They plan to use rainwater from catchment ponds for irrigation and have provided evidence that they can catch enough water even in dry years. The project has been reviewed for environmental impact and other concerns, and is recommended for approval by the Planning Commission. The project also meets the county’s standards and will not negatively impact wildlife. There are conditions, such as regular monitoring and water metering, that the company must follow if the permit is approved.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of Scooby Doo!

Title: Scooby Doo and the Mystery of the Cannabis Cultivation

Fade in to the gang driving the Mystery Machine through the winding roads of Humboldt County. They had been invited to visit the New Harris area to attend a Planning Commission meeting regarding a Conditional Use Permit for Finmark Farms, LLC.

Shaggy: Like, zoinks, man. I can’t believe we’re going to check out a cannabis farm!

Velma: It’s important to learn about different industries, Shaggy. And it’ll be interesting to see how they operate within the regulations set by the county.

As they arrived at the meeting location, they were greeted by Steven A. Santos, the Senior Planner. He explained the details of the project to the gang and invited them to explore the farm after the meeting.

Fred: Sounds like a plan, Steven. We’ll attend the meeting and then check out the farm to see if everything is as it seems.

The gang sat through the meeting, listening to the discussions about water usage, environmental impact, and safety measures. Everything seemed to be in order, and the Planning Commission approved the Conditional Use Permit for Finmark Farms, LLC.

After the meeting, the gang headed towards the farm to take a closer look. They were greeted by Mark Finley, the owner of the farm, and his daughter Jasmine, who was the agent for the property.

Scooby: Rikes, Raggy, this place is huge!

Jasmine led the gang on a tour of the farm, showing them the rainwater catchment ponds, the irrigation system, and the outdoor cultivation areas. Everything appeared to be well-maintained and in compliance with the regulations.

Suddenly, as they were walking through the fields, they heard a loud noise coming from the edge of the property. They followed the sound and discovered a group of people trying to break into one of the storage sheds.

Fred: Looks like we’ve got a mystery on our hands, gang! Let’s split up and see if we can catch these intruders.

Velma and Daphne stayed with Mark and Jasmine to make sure they were safe, while Fred, Shaggy, Scooby, and the rest of the gang chased after the culprits. After a thrilling chase through the fields, they finally caught the intruders, who turned out to be rival cannabis farmers trying to sabotage Finmark Farms.

With the help of the gang, the criminals were handed over to the authorities, and Mark and Jasmine thanked the gang for their help in solving the mystery.

Mark: I don’t know what we would have done without you all. Thanks for keeping our farm safe!

As the sun set over the cannabis fields of Humboldt County, the gang said their goodbyes and headed back to the Mystery Machine, ready for their next adventure.

Fred: Another mystery solved, gang. Let’s keep an eye out for more strange cases to crack!

And with that, the Mystery Machine roared off into the night, leaving behind a successful investigation and a grateful community in the New Harris area.

Fade out.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - 13337 Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - 13337 Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - 13337 Operations PlanAttachment 1C - 13337 Site PlanAttachment 2 - 13337 Location MapAttachment 3 - 13337 CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - 13337 Applicant's Evidence in Support of FindingsAttachment 4A - 13337 Water analysisAttachment 4B - 13337 Notice of ApplicabilityAttachment 4C - 13337 Site Management PlanAttachment 4D - 13337 Road Maintenance AgreementAttachment 4E - 13337 Lake or Streambed Alteration AgreementAttachment 5A to 5C - 13337 Referral Agency CommentsAttachment 6 - 13337 Watershed Map


5. Finmark Farms, LLC Special Permit Assessor’s Parcel Numbers: 218-081-006 Record Numbers

The County of Humboldt is considering granting a special permit to Finmark Farms, LLC for a commercial cannabis cultivation project in the New Harris area. The project involves using rainwater catchment ponds for irrigation and power provided by a generator with solar energy proposed. The project must comply with certain conditions, including the use of renewable energy by January 1, 2026. The project has been reviewed for environmental impact and must meet various requirements before approval.

— LoCOBot

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

Merv “The Beast” Tarkington: Good morning, patriots! It’s Merv “The Beast” Tarkington here, and boy do we have a doozy of a topic for you today. We’re talking about the Finmark Farms, LLC Special Permit in the County of Humboldt. Now, let me break it down for you.

This special permit is for 7,200 square feet of existing outdoor commercial cannabis cultivation. That’s right, folks, we’re talking about growing that devil’s lettuce right in our own backyard. And get this, they’re planning on using 140,000 gallons of water sourced from rainwater catchment ponds. Can you believe it? Our precious water being used to grow drugs!

But it doesn’t stop there, folks. They’re also planning on using generators for power, with solar proposed in the future. And get this, they better switch to renewable energy by January 1, 2026. What a joke! We’re supposed to sit back and watch as these drug dealers destroy our environment and waste our resources.

And don’t even get me started on the geologic suitability and timber conversion issues. It’s a mess, folks. And let’s not forget about security and safety. Sure, they say they have surveillance systems in place, but who knows what kind of shady stuff could be going on behind closed doors.

But the real kicker, folks, is that the project is not even appealable to the California Coastal Commission. That’s right, they’re trying to sneak this through without any oversight. Well, I say enough is enough. It’s time for us to stand up and say no to these drug-peddling, environment-destroying criminals.

So, folks, I urge you to contact your local officials and let them know that we will not stand for this. We must protect our communities, our environment, and our way of life. This is Merv “The Beast” Tarkington signing off, but remember, the fight is far from over. Stay strong and stay vigilant, patriots!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - 13367 Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - 13367 Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - 13367 Operations PlanAttachment 1C - 13367 Site PlanAttachment 2 - 13367 Location MapAttachment 3 - 13367 CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - 13367 Applicant's Evidence in Support of FindingsAttachment 4A - 13367 Water AnalysisAttachment 4B - 13367 Notice of ApplicabilityAttachment 4C - 13367 Site Management PlanAttachment 4D - 13367 Road Maintenance AgreementAttachment 4E - 13367 Road EvaluationAttachment 4F - 13367 Forester ReportAttachment 4G - 13367 Lake or Streambed Alteration AgreementAttachment 5A to 5D - 13367 Referral Agency CommentsAttachment 6 - 13367 Watershed Map


6. Finmark Farms, LLC Conditional Use Permit Assessor’s Parcel Numbers: 218-051-008 Record Numbers

The County of Humboldt is considering a permit for a cannabis cultivation project by Finmark Farms, LLC in the New Harris area. The project involves cultivating cannabis on a 30,000 square foot area with the support of a 3,000 square foot nursery. The project will use rainwater from catchment ponds for irrigation, with power provided by PGE. The Planning Commission is recommended to approve the permit with specific conditions. The project has been reviewed for environmental impact and is deemed compliant with regulations. The project also includes considerations for water usage, geologic suitability, timber conversion, security, tribal consultation, and consistency with county resolutions. The applicant and owners of the project are provided for reference and inquiries.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a corrido!

En el condado de Humboldt, en una reunión programada,
Se discute el futuro de Finmark Farms, LLC, muy esperada.
Un permiso condicional para cultivar cannabis al aire libre,
Con una guardería complementaria, un proyecto que cubre.

Treinta mil pies cuadrados de cultivo comercial,
Con un vivero de tres mil, todo de forma natural.
Dos estanques de agua de lluvia para abastecer,
Ciento setenta y seis galones anuales, ¡qué placer!

Todo el proceso de secado será en el lugar,
La electricidad de PGE será la que van a usar.
Sin duda, es un proyecto que ha sido planificado,
¡A la Comisión de Planificación le corresponde darle paso!

Ya se ha considerado la Declaración Negativa Mitigada,
Y el proyecto cumple con la ordenanza y el plan señalada.
Condiciones de aprobación han sido establecidas,
¡Es momento de seguir adelante con estas medidas!

El lugar del proyecto es Nuevo Harris, en Island Mountain Road,
Con zonificación especial, un lugar sagrado y a la par.
Se ha preparado un informe ambiental, conforme a las reglas,
Y no se prevé ningún impacto negativo, en las corrientes o selvas.

La seguridad y la protección también están contempladas,
Acceso controlado, sistemas de vigilancia, todo planeado.
El agua para la protección contra incendios debe estar asegurada,
Y un plan de respuesta en emergencia, también será implementada.

La Tribu ha sido consultada, fuera de sus territorios mapeados,
Y se ha establecido un protocolo para evitar cualquier daño relacionado.
Consistente con la Resolución de la Junta del Condado,
El proyecto avanza, un paso importante dado.

En resumen, un proyecto bien pensado y planificado,
Con todos los elementos ambientales, de seguridad y cuidado considerados.
Finmark Farms, LLC en el condado de Humboldt,
Un paso más cerca de lograr su sueño deseado.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - 13374 Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - 13374 Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - 13374 Operations PlanAttachment 1C - 13374 Site PlanAttachment 2 - 13374 Location MapAttachment 3 - 13374 CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - 13374 Applicant's Evidence in Support of FindingsAttachment 4A - 13374 Water AnalysisAttachment 4B - 13374 Notice of ApplicabilityAttachment 4C - 13374 Site Management PlanAttachment 4D - 13374 Road Maintenance AgreementAttachment 4E - 13374 Lake or Streambed Alteration AgreementAttachment 5A to 5D - 13374 Referral Agency CommentsAttachment 6 - 13374 Watershed Map


7. Kooy Parcel Map Subdivision Record No.

The County of Humboldt is considering a proposal to subdivide a property in the Humboldt Hill area into two parcels to build two homes. The project involves creating one parcel with a single-family residence and another with an Accessory Dwelling Unit. The property is located in an earthquake fault hazard zone. The Planning Commission is being asked to approve the subdivision and grant an exception to certain frontage improvements. The staff recommends approving the project as it meets all required criteria and does not require additional environmental review. The property owner is seeking approval for the project through the Planning Commission rather than a ministerial approval process.

— LoCOBot

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

Starfish: Hey man, have you read this document from the County of Humboldt about the Kooy Parcel Map Subdivision?

Noodles: Whoa, dude, that’s a lot of information. But like, what’s it about?

Starfish: So, they’re dividing a ½-acre property into two parcels with two single-family homes. And they’re asking for an exception to waive the sidewalk requirements.

Noodles: Whoa, that sounds complicated. But, like, why do they need an exception?

Starfish: Well, they say the sidewalks on that road are mostly on one side, and it’s not realistic to build sidewalks on the other side.

Noodles: Makes sense, man. It’s all about accessibility and stuff, right?

Starfish: Yeah, exactly. They’re also talking about seismic hazards and how the property is in a Special Studies Zone.

Noodles: Whoa, nature is wild, man. It’s like, you never know what’s going on under the ground.

Starfish: Totally, dude. And they’re saying that the project is consistent with the General Plan and no additional environmental review is needed.

Noodles: That’s good to hear. It’s important to protect the environment and all that.

Starfish: Yeah, for sure. It’s cool to see how they’re trying to balance development with environmental concerns.

Noodles: Totally, man. Let’s hope everything goes smoothly for them. And hey, want to watch a movie or something after we finish reading this document?

Starfish: Sounds good to me, dude. Let’s chill and enjoy the high.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - Kooy Subdivision Reqs Final (6-9-2023)Attachment 1C - Tentative MapAttachment 2A - Location MapAttachment 2B - Sidewalk MapAttachment 3 - Applicant's Evidence in Support of FindingsAttachment 3A - Kooy_Exception_Request_petition_SidewalksAttachment 4 - Referral Agency Comments & RecommendationsAttachment 4A - PW Response to Exception Request


8. Pharming Humboldt Dreams Microbusiness, Special Permit Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN) 223-241-006 Record No.

The Planning Commission is considering a Special Permit for a microbusiness that will include cannabis manufacturing, distribution, and a nursery in Humboldt County. The project will use existing structures and cultivate cannabis on-site. The project has been reviewed for environmental impact and other considerations, and the recommendation is for approval with certain conditions. The project location, water usage, biological resources, energy source, access, geologic suitability, security measures, tribal consultation, and environmental review have all been assessed. The applicant, owners, and agent are listed for reference.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a town crier's speech!

Hear ye, hear ye! Gather round, good people of the County of Humboldt, for a momentous meeting of the Planning Commission on this day, the 4th of March in the year 2025.

For your consideration, we have File # 25-440, regarding the special permit for Pharming Humboldt Dreams Microbusiness, located in the Garberville area. This microbusiness seeks to conduct non-volatile manufacturing, distribution, and nursery operations in an existing commercially permitted structure. All cannabis used in these operations will be sourced onsite, with no offsite imports.

The Planning Commission is urged to adopt the resolution, which includes findings that the project complies with the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance. The permit is recommended for approval subject to certain conditions.

This project has undergone environmental review and has received positive responses from responsible agencies. Concerns such as water usage, biological resources, and access have been addressed in the project’s operations plan.

The applicant, Pharming Humboldt Dreams, LLC, along with the property owners, Karla Knust and Bradley Senseman, and their agent, DTN Engineering, have provided detailed plans and evidence in support of the project.

Should you have any questions or require further information, please reach out to Derek Wiles, Planner, at dwiles@co.humboldt.ca.us or 707-268-3727.

Let us move forward with diligence and wisdom in considering this proposal, ensuring it aligns with the values and regulations of our beloved County of Humboldt. Thank you for your attention, and may our decisions be guided by prudence and foresight. Thank you!

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - 19044 Operation and Cultivation Plan 3.27.2025Attachment 1C - Site Plan_3-24-25Attachment 2 - Location MapAttachment 3 - CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - Applicant's Evidence in Support of FindingsAttachment 5 - Referral Agency Comments and RecomendationsAttachment 6 - Public Comment 3.20.2025


9. Cottrell Ranch LLC, Buck Mountain Ranch Zone Reclassification Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN) 210-101-014-000, 210-102-004-000, 210-103-003-000, 210-104-001-000, 210-105-001-000, 210-106-002-000, 210-117-020-000, 210-123-001-000, 210-124-001-000, 210-131-001-000, 210-131-003-000, and 210-132-001-000 Record No.

Cottrell Ranch LLC is requesting to reclassify 2,127.6 acres of land in Humboldt County from Agriculture Exclusive to Timberland Production Zone. This is to protect timber production, which is important for the county’s economy. The project has been reviewed and recommended for approval. The land will be managed for timber production and conservation. The reclassification is not expected to have a significant impact on the environment and is not appealable to the California Coastal Commission. The Planning Commission is recommended to approve the reclassification.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Twitter thread!

🌲THREAD🌲

🌳 Exciting news coming out of the County of Humboldt Planning Commission meeting on 4/3/2025 regarding the Cottrell Ranch LLC’s Buck Mountain Ranch Zone Reclassification! 🌲

🌿 The proposal includes rezoning approximately 2,127.6 acres from Agriculture Exclusive (AE) to Timberland Production Zone (TPZ) to manage the land for timber production and conservation. A vital step to protect timber production in the county. 🌿

🌲 The Forestry Review Committee has already reviewed and recommended approval of the project, citing its consistency with General Plan policies and the Forest Taxation Reform Act of 1976. This rezone is in the public interest and supports the county’s economy. 🌲

🌳 The project site is in the Bridgeville area, with the proposed rezone covering 12 parcels totaling 3,156.2 acres. After the reclassification, all parcels will be fully rezoned to TPZ to align with timber production land use. 🌳

🌿 Referral agencies have already provided their comments and recommendations, with no major concerns raised. The project has also been found to be exempt from CEQA, as it has no potential for significant environmental impact. 🌿

🌲 Planning staff have recommended that the Planning Commission adopt the resolution for approval, based on evidence in the staff report and public testimony. This reclassification will further support sustainable timber management in Humboldt County. 🌲

🌿 For more information on the project or to ask any questions, please contact Andrew Whitney, Planner, at awhitney2@co.humboldt.ca.us or 707-268-3735. Stay tuned for updates on this important initiative! 🌿

#HumboldtCounty #TimberProduction #Conservation #PlanningCommission #EnvironmentalImpact #SustainableManagement

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Zone Reclassification MapAttachment 2 - Petition to Rezone to Timber Production ZoneAttachment 3 - Referral tableAttachment 3A - 02.28.2025 Forestry Review Committee Minutes


10. California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Conditional Use Permit Cannibal Island Restoration Project Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN): Portion of 310-021-003, 310-021-004, 310-033-004, 310-043-001, 310-043-003, 310-043-004, 310-043-005, 310-043-006, and 310-051-001 Record No.

The County of Humboldt is considering a restoration project for Cannibal Island and the surrounding area in the Eel River estuary. The project involves various tasks like removing structures, building levees, and creating tidal habitats. The goal is to enhance wildlife habitats and protect agricultural lands. The project has been found to be exempt from environmental review and has received support from various agencies. A permit is needed from the California Coastal Commission. The project aims to benefit the environment and local communities.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a detective story!

Title: The Cannibal Island Restoration Mystery

Chapter 1: The Proposal

As the Planning Commission of the County of Humboldt gathered to discuss the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Cannibal Island Restoration Project, Detective John Hastings couldn’t help but feel a sense of unease. The ambitious restoration project aimed to rejuvenate the Eel River estuary and create diverse habitats for wildlife, but there was something about it that didn’t sit right with him.

Chapter 2: The Investigation Begins

With a file number in hand, Detective Hastings delved into the details of the project. The removal of an abandoned two-story residential structure, the deepening of existing dikes, and the construction of inter-tidal lagoons all seemed like positive steps towards environmental conservation. But as he studied the environmental review and permit requirements, he couldn’t shake off the feeling that there was more to this project than met the eye.

Chapter 3: The Mysterious Parcel Numbers

As Detective Hastings looked into the Assessor Parcel Numbers associated with the project, he found a web of ownership that led him to private landowners and government agencies alike. The involvement of multiple stakeholders raised suspicions in his mind, especially when he uncovered conflicting interests and hidden agendas.

Chapter 4: Clues in the Environmental Review

As he reviewed the environmental impact assessments and mitigation measures, Detective Hastings noticed discrepancies and oversights that raised red flags. The absence of required monitoring plans and the lack of transparency in the project’s approval process hinted at potential loopholes and cover-ups.

Chapter 5: Tribal Connections

When he stumbled upon references to the historic aboriginal territories of local tribes, Detective Hastings decided to reach out to tribal representatives for their perspective on the project. The discovery of cultural resources and the need for cultural resource investigations added a new layer of complexity to the case.

Chapter 6: Unraveling the Mystery

Armed with evidence and a growing sense of urgency, Detective Hastings presented his findings to the Planning Commission. As he raised questions about the project’s true intentions and the hidden motives of those involved, he uncovered a tangled web of corruption, exploitation, and environmental injustice.

Chapter 7: Justice Prevails

In a dramatic turn of events, the Planning Commission, swayed by Detective Hastings’ thorough investigation and compelling arguments, voted to halt the Cannibal Island Restoration Project pending further review. The truth behind the project’s facade was finally exposed, and measures were taken to ensure proper oversight and accountability in future conservation efforts.

Epilogue

As the dust settled and the echoes of the investigation faded, Detective Hastings reflected on the importance of diligence and integrity in preserving the natural world. The case of the Cannibal Island Restoration Project had been a challenging and eye-opening experience, reminding him of the ongoing battle between progress and preservation in the ever-evolving landscape of environmental conservation.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - Operations and Maintenance Plan 11.28.2023Attachment 1C - Site Plans 11.28.2023Attachment 1D - Site Figures 11.28.2023Attachment 1E - Pre-existing Site ConditionsAttachment 2 - Applicant’s Evidence in Support of the Required FindingsAttachment 2A - Wetland Delineation 11.28.2023Attachment 2B - Wetlands Fill Analysis 11.28.2023Attachment 2C - Biological Study 11.28.2023Attachment 2D - Botanical Study 11.28.2023Attachment 2E - Habitat Conversion Analysis 11.28.2023Attachment 2F - Agricultural Resources Assessment 11.28.2023Attachment 2G - Soils Report 11.28.2023Attachment 2H - Soils Analysis Report 11.28.2023Attachment 2I - Restoration Plan 11.28.2023Attachment 3 - Referral Agency Comments and Recommendations FINALAttachment 3A - County Division of Environmental HealthAttachment 3B - County Department of Public Works - Land UseAttachment 3C - PG&E Initial_Response_Letter_12-13-2023


F. PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. Fischer Parcel Map Subdivision, Special Permit and Coastal Development Permit Record No.

The County of Humboldt is considering a proposal to divide a large parcel of land in McKinleyville into two smaller parcels for residential development. A special permit and coastal development permit are required due to the smaller size of one of the parcels. The project has been found to be exempt from further environmental review and is in line with local zoning regulations. The project has received positive feedback from relevant agencies. The applicant is David Meserve, and any questions can be directed to Chris Lohoefener.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a science-fiction story!

It was the year 2025, and the County of Humboldt was abuzz with excitement over a new project in the McKinleyville area. The Planning Commission was gathered for a public hearing to discuss the Fischer Parcel Map Subdivision, Special Permit, and Coastal Development Permit. The project aimed to divide a 49,000 square foot parcel into two smaller parcels, one of 35,960 square feet and the other 13,300 square feet.

The project had sparked some debate among the residents of McKinleyville, with concerns raised about the impact on the environment and public safety. However, after thorough review and analysis, the Planning and Building Department had concluded that the project was exempt from further environmental review, as it was consistent with the local planning and zoning documents.

The parcel in question was currently home to a single-family residence and a detached Accessory Dwelling Unit, both of which would remain on their respective parcels after the subdivision. The area was deemed stable in terms of slope stability and not located within any hazard zones, such as fault lines or tsunami-prone areas.

One of the major points of contention was the proposed road and pedestrian improvements, including a curb and gutter, landscape stripe, and sidewalk. Public Works had recommended these improvements be made, along with the installation of a drainage inlet to address ponding issues in the area.

The applicant, David Meserve, had submitted exception requests regarding the landscaping stripe and drainage inlet, arguing that the conditions were unnecessary and burdensome. However, Public Works stood by their recommendations, stating that the improvements were vital for public safety and proper drainage.

As the meeting progressed, tensions ran high as residents voiced their opinions for and against the project. Some saw it as a necessary development for the growing community, while others feared the impact on the natural landscape and existing infrastructure.

In the end, after much deliberation and debate, the Planning Commission voted to approve the Fischer Parcel Map Subdivision, Special Permit, and Coastal Development Permit. The conditions of approval were upheld, including the road and pedestrian improvements and the installation of the drainage inlet.

As the dust settled and the meeting adjourned, the residents of McKinleyville were left to ponder the future of their community. Would this subdivision be the start of a new era of growth and prosperity, or would it lead to unforeseen consequences for their beloved town? Only time would tell.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - DRAFT ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - Tentative MapAttachment 1C - PW conditionsAttachment 1D - Exception Request to Public Works RequirementsAttachment 1E - PW Exception Memo Final (2-21-2025)Attachment 1F - Fischer drainage letter_EngineerAttachment 1G - Planning commission letter_ApplicantAttachment 2 - Location MapAttachment 3 - Applicant’s Evidence in Support of the Required FindingsAttachment 4 - Referral Agency Comments and RecommendationsAttachment 5 - Public Comment


G. ITEMS PULLED FROM CONSENT

H. REPORT FROM PLANNER

I. PLANNING COMMISSION DISCUSSION ITEMS


Lately on LoCO

© 2025 Lost Coast Communications Contact: news@lostcoastoutpost.com.