Isabella Vanderheiden / @ 3:08 p.m. / Agendizer

Humboldt County Planning Commissioners Could Move on Long-Awaited McKinleyville Town Center Ordinance at Tonight’s Meeting

A map of the 134-acre McKinleyville Town Center site. | Map: County of Humboldt


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After nearly six years of meticulous planning and community outreach, the McKinleyville Town Center Ordinance is finally approaching the bureaucratic finish line.

At tonight’s meeting, the Humboldt County Planning Commission will take one last look at the draft ordinance before forwarding its recommendations to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors for final review next month.

The McKinleyville Town Center site spans approximately 134 acres between Railroad Avenue on the north and Heartwood Drive on the south, and McKinleyville Avenue on the west and the eastern boundary of Pierson Park on the east. The vision for the project was first conceived way back in 1965, though it would take nearly 40 years to incorporate the proposal into the McKinleyville Community Plan, which was adopted in 2002. 

That plan outlines two long-term goals for the town center: “1) To establish a unique identity for McKinleyville through the development of a viable town center, serving as a community focal point and providing a center for social/community interaction and 2) To develop an area of mixed land uses which encourages bicycle and pedestrian travel, yet allows for convenient and safe automobile access.”

Reached by phone this afternoon, Humboldt County Planning and Building Director John Ford described the McKinleyville Town Center Project as a “long-term vision” for the unincorporated town, rather than an impending development.

“I know [this project] disturbs a lot of people, but this is really more of a long-term vision than something that’s going to happen immediately,” Ford told the Outpost. “The area behind Safeway? I don’t know that there’s anything that will immediately happen there. I know that the property owner of a couple of those parcels has an idea of what they would like to do, but they’ve been kind of holding off, waiting to see what happened with the town center.”

So far, the only development planned for the town center site is Life Plan Humboldt’s 101-unit senior living community that’s slated for an undeveloped 14.6-acre parcel on Hiller Road. The non-profit plans to split the parcel, with two acres for the Rural Community Housing Development Corporation (RCH) to begin its own development of up to 50 affordable senior apartments.

“Life Plan Humboldt is really waiting for this work to get done so they can move ahead,” Ford said. “They’re ready to do a parcel map and subdivide the [single] parcel they’ve got into two so that they can convey the affordable part of the project to the [RCH] … and they can begin work on their component.”

The proposed zoning amendments would allow a mix of commercial and residential space — over 2,500 housing units and 900,000 square feet of retail and office space — across the McKinleyville Town Center Project area. But again, development of the site will happen gradually. Each project proposal will be subject to a zoning conformance review process known as zoning clearance certification.

At tonight’s meeting, staff will recommend that the Planning Commission certify the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the project, adopt a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) and approve “all required findings of approval” for a zoning ordinance amendment that would change the town center zoning designation to mixed use with a qualified combining zone (Q-Zone) overlay to “establish development criteria.” If commissioners give the OK, the ordinance will advance to the Board of Supervisors docket in mid-October.

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The Humboldt County Planning Commission meets at 6 p.m. in the Board of Supervisors’ chambers at the Humboldt County Courthouse — 825 Fifth Street in Eureka. The full agenda can be found below.


Humboldt County Planning Commission
Sept. 18, 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 August 21, 2025, Action Summary

2. Review and approval of the September 4, 2025, Action Summary.

3. Fenario LLC Conditional Use Permit and Special Permit Assessor Parcel Number (APN) 223-034-003 Record No.

The County of Humboldt is considering a proposal from Fenario LLC for a Conditional Use Permit and Special Permit for cannabis cultivation in the Benbow area. The project includes outdoor cultivation, water sourcing, power provision, and pond removal and restoration. The Planning Commission is recommended to approve the permits with certain conditions. The project has been reviewed for environmental impact and consulted with relevant agencies. If approved, it will comply with county regulations and contribute to the local economy while minimizing negative effects on the environment.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Bruce Springsteen song!

(Verse 1)
I’m a farmer in the County of Humboldt
Working the land, watching my crops unfold
Got my Conditional Use Permit in hand
For my cannabis cultivation plan

(Chorus)
I’m just a man trying to make a living
In this world of uncertainty
But with hard work and dedication
I’ll build my dreams in the land of opportunity

(Verse 2)
Water sourced from the river and the rain
Power from the sun, ain’t no need for disdain
34,924 square feet of outdoor grow
With a nursery for my plants to show

(Chorus)
I’m just a man trying to make a living
In this world of uncertainty
But with hard work and dedication
I’ll build my dreams in the land of opportunity

(Bridge)
I follow the rules, I follow the plan
To be a responsible farmer, a humble man
Respecting the land, the water, and the trees
Building a future for my family

(Chorus)
I’m just a man trying to make a living
In this world of uncertainty
But with hard work and dedication
I’ll build my dreams in the land of opportunity

(Outro)
So here’s my song, my story to tell
In the County of Humboldt, where my dreams dwell
With a Conditional Use Permit in my hand
I’ll continue to grow in this fertile land.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - Operations Plan - updatedAttachment 1C - Site PlanAttachment 2 - Location MapsAttachment 3 - CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - Applicant's Evidence in Support of Required FindingsAttachment 4A - Site Managment PlanAttachment 4B - Water RightAttachment 4C - Road Evaluation 12050 Road EvaluationAttachment 4D - LSAA amended finalAttachment 4E - Pond Retirement and Restoration PlanAttachment 5 - Referral Agency Comments and RecommendationsAttachment 5A - CDFW comments


4. Humboldt Flavor, LLC. Conditional Use Permit and Special Permit Assessor’s Parcel Numbers: 210-074-008-000, 210-074-007-000 Record Numbers

The Planning and Building Department in the County of Humboldt is recommending approval for Humboldt Flavor, LLC to operate a marijuana cultivation facility in Larabee Valley. The facility will use outdoor cultivation techniques and renewable energy sources. The project has been reviewed by various agencies and is in compliance with county regulations. The Planning Commission is being asked to adopt a resolution approving the project with certain conditions.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a chanson!

Dans la vallée de Larabee, un projet est en vue,
Pour Humboldt Flavor, LLC, un permis spécial est attendu.
Cultures en extérieur, une technique de déprivation,
Sur 15 545 pieds carrés, une nouvelle plantation.

Un permis conditionnel pour l’eau d’irrigation,
Puisée d’un puits autorisé, une belle installation.
Avec 47 000 gallons dans des réservoirs durs,
La planète nous appelle, il est temps d’être sûr.

Une recommandation pour une électricité verte,
D’ici le premier janvier 2026, une énergie ouverte.
Les plantes seront traitées hors du site,
Dans une installation licenciée, tout est bien vite.

La commission de planification doit décider,
De donner son approbation, tout est bien étudié.
La résolution est adoptée, les conditions incluses,
Pour Humboldt Flavor, Inc., une nouvelle phase est venue.

Dans la belle Humboldt, des projets en mouvement,
Pour le cannabis, une nouvelle chance de développement.
Avec des conditions strictes et un suivi annuel,
Nous travaillons ensemble pour un avenir écologique, un appel.

Ensemble, pour le comté de Humboldt, un pas en avant,
Pour un avenir durable et bienveillant.
Dans la vallée de Larabee, une nouvelle histoire commence,
Avec Humboldt Flavor, une chance de réinventer notre confiance.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Conditions of ApprovalAttachment 1B - Cultivation Operations Plan and AddendumAttachment 1C - Site Plan 09.05.2025Attachment 1D - Legal Parcel ConfigurationAttachment 2 - Location MapAttachment 3 - CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - Applicant's Evidence in Support of Required FindingsAttachment 4A - Irrigation Well Completion ReportAttachment 4B - 12935 WRPP & SMP Cover Letter_Spurlock_059Attachment 4C - 23203 Executed DCC Renewable Energy Grant AgreementAttachment 4D - 12935 Road Evaluation 1.6.2022Attachment 4E - 12935 Soils Report 06.30.2017Attachment 4F - Cal Fire Exempt- 3 acre conversion SpurlockAttachment 4G - 16749 14157 NOM and COSC 2025-009552Attachment 4H - 16749 14157 NOM and COSC 2025-009552Attachment 5 - Referral Agency Comments and RecomendationsAttachment 5A - 12935_ref_Environmental HealthAttachment 5B - 12935_ref_CDFWAttachment 5C - 12935_ref_CALFIREAttachment 5D - 12935_ref_Public WorksAttachment 6 - Watershed Map


F. PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. Draft Density Bonus Ordinance Amendment – Updating Zoning Ordinance to match State Code that regulates and allows Density Bonuses Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN) 000-000-000 Record No.: LRP-2023-18343 Countywide An amendment to the Inland and Coastal Zoning Regulations to amend sections 313-111 and 314-112 to update the Density Bonus Regulations such that they match the current State requirements as established within California Government Code Section 65915 and 65915.5. Additional changes are mad

The County of Humboldt is proposing an amendment to update their Density Bonus Ordinance to match the State Code. This ordinance would allow higher-density housing developments with affordable units for specific demographics. The Planning Commission is recommended to adopt the resolution to update the ordinance, which includes changes to eligibility criteria, decision-makers, financial feasibility requirements, numerical values, replacement of existing units, and housing agreements. The proposed changes are consistent with California Government Code. The amendment is not expected to have a significant effect on the environment. All comments and recommendations from other agencies have been considered in the draft ordinance.

— LoCOBot

… or, as an episode of 'The Moe Hogan Experience'!

Moe Hogan: Alright folks, today we have a very interesting document to discuss. We have here a Draft Density Bonus Ordinance Amendment from the County of Humboldt. Now, let me tell you, this is some heavy stuff. I mean, they’re talking about changing zoning regulations, updating density bonus ordinances, and all that jazz. But you know what they say, the devil’s in the details. Let’s get into it.

Moe Hogan: So, Mr. Author, can you break it down for us? What exactly are they trying to change with this ordinance?

Author: Well, they are essentially updating the zoning regulations to align with the current State requirements for density bonuses. The idea is to encourage higher housing density and lower cost housing developments in the County.

Moe Hogan: Ah, I see. So basically, they want to make it easier for developers to build affordable housing, right?

Author: Exactly. By offering density bonuses and additional incentives, they are hoping to incentivize developers to include affordable housing units in their projects.

Moe Hogan: Interesting, interesting. Now, I gotta ask, why do they need to go through all this trouble? Can’t they just let the market do its thing?

Author: Well, the State Government has certain requirements and regulations in place that the County needs to adhere to. This amendment is just a way to make sure everything lines up correctly.

Moe Hogan: Alright, alright. Now, let me just check something real quick with my producer. Hey, can you look up California Government Code Section 65915 for me?

Producer: Actually, Moe, I just checked and it looks like you misremembered the code. It’s actually California Government Code Section 65915.5 that regulates density bonuses.

Moe Hogan: Ah, my bad, my bad. Thanks for clearing that up, producer. Alright, moving on. Let’s take a quick break and hear from our sponsor.

[Sponsored Segment]

Moe Hogan: And we’re back, folks. Now, Mr. Author, before we wrap up, is there anything else you want to add about this Density Bonus Ordinance Amendment?

Author: Just that it’s a necessary step to ensure that the County is in compliance with State regulations and to promote the development of affordable housing in the area.

Moe Hogan: Well, there you have it, folks. The County of Humboldt is making moves to help their community. Thank you, Mr. Author, for shedding some light on this important topic. And remember, stay woke, stay informed. This is the Moe Hogan Experience.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 2.A - Draft Ordinance No. ___ amending Section 314-112.1 and Definitions (Inland)Attachment 2.B - Draft Ordinance No. ___ amending Section 313-111.1 and Definitions (Coastal)Attachment 3.A - Inland Code Section 314-112Attachment 3.B - Coastal Code Section 313-111Attachment 3.C - Inland Code DefinitionsAttachment 3.D - Coastal Code Definitions


2. Amendments to Commercial Cannabis Microbusiness Standards – Path to Enabling Microbusinesses to be permitted as Zoning Clearance Certificates under certain conditions. Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN) 000-000-000 Record No.: LRP-2025-19214 Countywide An amendment to the Commercial Cannabis Microbusiness provisions of the Inland Zoning Regulations to amend subsections 314-55.4.8.2 and 314-55.4.10.3 to broaden the permit-type options for cannabis microbusinesses and to enable nonvolatile cannabis man

The County of Humboldt is proposing amendments to the regulations for commercial cannabis microbusinesses to allow them to be permitted as Zoning Clearance Certificates under certain conditions. This would broaden the permit options for microbusinesses and enable nonvolatile cannabis manufacturing in association with cultivation activities. The Planning Commission is being asked to adopt these amendments, which include changes to the current regulations and adding new subsections to clarify the permit process. This proposal is in response to a request by the Board of Supervisors to assess reducing requirements for microbusiness permits. The changes aim to make it easier for cultivators to integrate their businesses. The Planning Commission can choose not to approve the amendments or modify them based on public input. More information is available upon request from the Planning Department.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a heartbreaking country/western song!

Verse 1:
In the County of Humboldt, where the redwoods grow tall
There’s a heartbreakin’ tale that I must recall
A small microbusiness, just tryin’ to survive
But the regulations, they took away their drive

Chorus:
Oh, the Planning Commission, they made their decree
No more Special Permits, just a Zoning Clearance Certificate is all they see
Now this small business is left with no hope
Just tryin’ to cope, just tryin’ to cope

Verse 2:
Nonvolatile manufacturing, now tied to the land
No more on-site traffic, no more paved roads so grand
But for this microbusiness, it’s a heavy toll
No more dreams of success, just an empty hole

Chorus:
Oh, the Planning Commission, they made their decree
No more Special Permits, just a Zoning Clearance Certificate is all they see
Now this small business is left with no hope
Just tryin’ to cope, just tryin’ to cope

Bridge:
They say it’s progress, they say it’s for the best
But for this microbusiness, it’s just another test
They’re left with no options, no way to move on
Just left singin’ this sad, heartbreakin’ song

Chorus:
Oh, the Planning Commission, they made their decree
No more Special Permits, just a Zoning Clearance Certificate is all they see
Now this small business is left with no hope
Just tryin’ to cope, just tryin’ to cope

Outro:
In the County of Humboldt, where the redwoods grow tall
There’s a heartbreakin’ tale that I must recall
A small microbusiness, left in despair
Just tryin’ to survive in a world unfair.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Draft ResolutionAttachment 1A - Draft Ordinance No. ___ amending Section 314-55 of HCCAttachment 2 - Inland Existing Code - Section 314-55.4Attachment 3 - CEQA AddendumAttachment 4 - Discussion of Current StandardsAttachment 5 - What microbusiness can be permitted as a ZCC Table


3. McKinleyville Town Center Zoning Amendment Ordinance Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN) 508-251-060, 510-133-013-000, 508-251-008,508-251-061, 508-251-040, 508-251-051, 508-251-052, 508-251-034, 508-251-035, 508-251-023, 508-251-024, 510-133-006, 510-411-031, 510-133-032, 510-133-028, 510-411-025, 510-411-014, 510-411-006, 510-411-016, 510-401-027,510-401-026, 510-401-022, 510-401-011, 510-401-028, 510-401-003, 510-341-015, 510-341-019, 510-341-039, 510-341-017, 510-341-041, 510-132-013, 510-132-031,

The County of Humboldt is considering rezoning the McKinleyville Town Center to allow for a mix of commercial, civic, and residential uses with an emphasis on pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, open space, and wetland preservation. The goal is to create a unique and vibrant town center. The Planning Commission is recommending the adoption of an ordinance to implement these changes, following an Environmental Impact Report and public input. The project is seen as beneficial for housing needs, economic growth, and the overall community of McKinleyville.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a fantasy story!

In the County of Humboldt, nestled within the bustling town of McKinleyville, lies a hidden secret known as the McKinleyville Town Center. The townspeople often spoke in hushed tones about the magic that surrounded the area, where the buildings seemed to whisper old tales of times long past.

On the day of the meeting of 9/18/2025, a sense of excitement filled the air as the Planning Commission prepared to discuss the McKinleyville Town Center Zoning Amendment Ordinance. The town had been buzzing with rumors about the proposed changes – a mix of commercial, civic, and residential uses, all centered around the preservation of wetlands and open spaces. The proposal included form-based building design standards that would give the Town Center a unique and cohesive look.

As the meeting began, members of the Planning Commission listened intently as the Planning and Building Department presented the details of the ordinance. The Assessor Parcel Numbers listed seemed to stretch on forever, representing the numerous plots of land that would be affected by the proposed changes.

The discussion delved into the history of the Town Center, with the Policy Guidance from the McKinleyville Community Plan serving as a guiding light for the proposed ordinance. The goals and policies outlined in the Plan were aimed at creating a vibrant and diverse town center, a place where residents could gather and socialize amidst a mix of commercial and residential spaces.

But as the meeting progressed, it became clear that not everyone was in agreement with the proposed changes. Concerns were raised about the reconfiguration of Central Avenue, the impact on wetlands, and the sheer scale of development analyzed in the Environmental Impact Report.

Amidst the debate, a hush fell over the room as a mysterious figure appeared at the back of the hall. Clad in a cloak of deep green, with eyes that seemed to gleam like emeralds, the stranger spoke in a voice that echoed through the chamber.

“I have come to offer a different perspective on the McKinleyville Town Center,” the figure said, his words sending a shiver down the spines of those present. “The magic of this land must be preserved, not paved over with concrete and steel.”

As the townspeople watched in awe, the stranger wove a tale of ancient forests and mystical creatures that called the Town Center their home. He spoke of the importance of balance and harmony, of preserving the natural beauty of the land while still allowing for progress and development.

In the end, the Planning Commission made their recommendations to the Board of Supervisors, but the words of the mysterious stranger lingered in their minds. As they left the meeting, the townspeople whispered excitedly about the magic that still lingered in the McKinleyville Town Center, waiting to reveal itself to those who dared to listen. And so, the future of the Town Center remained uncertain, caught between the promises of progress and the whispers of ancient tales.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - CEQA Draft ResolutionAttachment 2 - Ordinance Adoption Draft ResolutionAttachment 3 - McKTC Draft OrdinanceAttachment 4 - Draft Environmental Impact Report LinkAttachment 5 - Final Environmental Impact Report LinkAttachment 6 - MMRP - McKinleyville Town Center Zoning Amendment


G. ITEMS PULLED FROM CONSENT

H. REPORT FROM PLANNER

I. PLANNING COMMISSIONER DISCUSSION ITEMS


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