Board Of Supervisors — Tuesday, August 26, 2025
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1. Call to Order
2. Moment of Silence
3. Pledge of Allegiance
4. Consideration of Extra Items Not Appearing on the Posted Agenda
5. Approval of the Consent Agenda
5.1Approve the 3rd Amendment to 2019 Agreement Between the City of Clearlake, City of Lakeport and the County of Lake for Operation of a Local Public, Educational, Governmental (PEG) Cable Television Channel, with Amendments Including Extension of the Term Through June 30, 2030 and authorize the Chair to sign
Agreement
passed on consent
Staff memo
Executive Summary
As your Board is aware, County and the Cities of Clearlake and Lakeport entered into an Agreement to operate a local Public, Educational, Governmental (PEG) cable television channel, Lake County PEG TV (Mediacom Channel 8), November 17, 2015. A new Agreement was created in 2019, supporting continued operation of the channel.
The 2019 Agreement anticipated extension of funding for operating expenses, provided the County and Cities continued to agree doing so served the public interest; it was previously Amended in 2021 and 2023 (term extensions only).
The attached Amendment extends funding for Lake County PEG TV through June 30, 2030. Further Amendments conform the Agreement to existing practice and update the City of Clearlake's "in-kind" contribution. It has been approved by the Clearlake (August 7) and Lakeport (August 19) City Councils. The PEG Board also affirmed their support of the Amendment Monday, August 4.
I recommend our Board Approve the 3rd Amendment to the 2019 Agreement between the City of Clearlake, City of Lakeport, and the County of Lake for operation of a Local Public, Educational, Governmental (PEG) Cable Television Channel.
Recommended Action
Approve the 3rd Amendment to 2019 Agreement Between the City of Clearlake, City of Lakeport and the County of Lake for Operation of a Local Public, Educational, Governmental (PEG) Cable Television Channel, with Amendments Including Extension of the Term Through June 30, 2030 and authorize the Chair to sign.
5.2Adopt Resolution Amending Resolution 2025-76 Establishing Position Allocations for FY 2025-2026 to Conform to the Recommended Budget and Approve Salary Grade Adjustments Based on Findings from the 2024 Compensation Study
Action Item
pulled on consent
Staff memo
Executive Summary
Staff submits for your Boards consideration proposed salary adjustments resulting from clerical sorting errors and misapplied salary spread relationships between classifications. These adjustments are appropriate and consistent with the 2024 Compensation Study.
The proposed salary adjustments are as follows:
a. Management Position Corrections
Class Code
Title
Grade
1-0429
Water Resources Director
M58
1-0791
Deputy Water Resources Director
M50
1-2062
Deputy Special District Admin I
M55
1-2063
Deputy Special District Admin II
M59
1-0797
Deputy Public Works Director I
M55
1-0798
Deputy Public Works Director II
M59
b. LCEA Position Corrections
Class Code
Title
Grade
3-2073
Fiscal Support Supervisor
S32
3-2045
Bridge Maintenance Supervisor
S27
4-2249
Public Works Fiscal Coordinator I
G30
4-2250
Public Works Fiscal Coordinator II
G34
c. LCEA Position Additions
Class Code
Title
Grade
4-2095
Project Coordinator
G22
5-1450
Construction Inspector
T42
Recommended Action
Adopt Resolution Amending Resolution 2025-76 Establishing Position Allocations for FY 2025-2026 to Conform to the Recommended Budget and Approve Salary Grade Adjustments Based on Findings from the 2024 Compensation Study
Supervisor Rasmussen offered the resolution and it passed by roll call vote:
Ayes- Supervisors: 4 - Owen, Rasmussen, Pyska, and Crandell
Abstain- Supervisor: 1 - Sabatier
Clerk’s notes: Human Resources Director Pam Samac presented the item to the Board.
Chair Crandell asked if anyone present wished to speak. No one wished to speak and the public input portion of this item was closed.
5.3Adopt Resolution Amending Resolution 2025-72 Establishing Salaries and Benefits for Management Employees for the period of July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2029
Action Item
passed on consent
Staff memo
Executive Summary
Staff submits for your Boards consideration amendments to the Management Resolution Establishing Salaries and Benefits for Management Employees for the period of July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2029.
The amendments are as follows:
1. Addition of Class A/B Differential
Employees who are required to possess a Class A/B driver's license due to the minimum requirements of the job description, shall receive a two and one-half percent (2.5%) of their base salary.
2. Correction to Leave Benefits
The vacation leave chart included a typographical error indicating that employees with 20 or more years of continuous service receive 6 weeks of annual vacation. The correct annual vacation for employees with 20 or more years of continuous service is 5 weeks.
Recommended Action
Staff requests your Board's approval to Adopt Resolution Amending Resolution 2025-72 Establishing Salaries and Benefits for Employees Assigned to the Management Employees for July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2029.
5.4Adopt Resolution Approving Agreement No.24-0680-047-SF with the California Department of Food and Agriculture for the European Grapevine Moth Detection Program for $19,562.00 for the Period of July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.
Agreement
passed on consent
Staff memo
Executive Summary
I would like to ask the Board to adopt the attached Resolution approving the agreement with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) for the European Grapevine Moth (EGVM) trapping and detection program in Lake County from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. The agreement amount is $19,562.00. This program is essential to protecting Lake County's wine grape industry.
Should the board adopt this Resolution, please have the chair sign and return one copy of the agreement, and one copy of the board resolution and return them to the Department of Agriculture for processing. A signed complete copy will be returned for your records.
Recommended Action
Approve Agreement No. 24-0680-047-SF with the California Department of Food and Agriculture for the European Grapevine Moth Detection Program for $19,562.00 from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.
5.5Adopt Proclamation Designating the Month of September 2025 as National Recovery Month in Lake County
Proclamation
passed on consent
Staff memo
Executive Summary
WHEREAS, Recovery Month recognizes the strong and proud recovery community, the dedication of service providers and community members in Lake County who assist and support individuals from prevention services to recovery; and
WHEREAS, Lake County Behavioral Health Services provided substance use disorder services to 437 participants, Hilltop Recovery Services provided 321 residential treatment beds and provided outpatient treatment to 23 clients, Redwood Community Services Tule House provided residential treatment services to 43 women and 18 children, and they also provided outpatient services to 1 client; and
WHEREAS, Lake County Behavioral Health Services provided mental health services to 1,751 individuals, Crisis/Mobile Crisis provided services to 822 individuals during the calendar year 2024; and
WHEREAS, nationally 28.2 million people in the US experienced a substance use disorder and 27.9 million had an Alcohol Use disorder, while 21.2 million experiences both substance use disorder and mental health disorders; and
WHEREAS, 7 in 10 adults who have substance use disorders, consider themselves recovering or in recovery and 2 in 3 adults who have mental health disorders consider themselves recovering or in recovery; and
WHEREAS, through promotion of Recovery Month, people from all walks of life are encouraged to become knowledgeable about what they can do to create a healthier tomorrow for themselves and others by helping to prevent these problems today; and
WHEREAS, Recovery is possible, and treatment is effective. People in recovery can and do become gainfully employed, own homes, follow their dreams, and rejoin their families and their communities.
WHEREAS, The County of Lake Board of Supervisors and Lake County Behavioral Health's Substance Use Disorder Services, Mental Health Services, Hilltop Recovery Services, Redwood Community Services, SafeRx, Hope Rising and Lake County Health Services urges all citizens, families, governmental agencies, public and private institutions, businesses, healthcare, education systems in Lake County to support efforts that will increase community awareness, understanding and action to address substance use disorder and mental health conditions in our community.
Recommended Action
Adopt a Proclamation Designating the Month of September 2025 as National Recovery Month in Lake County
5.6Approve Agreement Between County of Lake-Lake County Behavioral Health Services and as Lead Agency for the Lake County Continuum of Care and Adventist Health Clear Lake Hospital, Inc. In the Amount of $184,000 for the Period June 1, 2025, Through October 31, 2026 and authorize the Chair to sign
Action Item
passed on consent
Staff memo
Executive Summary
Lake County Behavioral Health Services (LCBHS), as the lead agency for the Lake County Continuum of Care (LCCoC), oversees a Whole Person Care Grant initiative to improve coordinated care, including homelessness outreach and prevention services. Following a prior Request for Proposals, Adventist Health Clear Lake was selected as a qualified nonprofit provider and contracted to deliver services supporting the Lake County Pathways HUB Model and LCCoC's Coordinated Entry System.
This agreement formalizes the continuation of services from June 1, 2025, through October 31, 2026, with compensation not to exceed $184,000.
Recommended Action
Approve Agreement Between County of Lake-Lake County Behavioral Health Services and as Lead Agency for the Lake County Continuum of Care and Adventist Health Clear Lake Hospital, Inc. In the Amount of $184,000 for the Period June 1, 2025, Through October 31, 2026 and authorize the Chair to sign.
5.7(a) Approve Amendment No. 2 to Agreement to Services Contract Between the County of Lake and Mitchell Hauptman for Indigent Defense Services and authorize the Board Chair to Sign; and (b) Approve Amendment No. 2 to Agreement to Services Contract Between the County of Lake and William Conwell for Indigent Defense Services and authorize the Board Chair to Sign
Agreement
passed on consent
Staff memo
Executive Summary
There has always been the need for contract attorneys in this County. While the Public Defender's office continues to grow and solidify, we as the County have relied upon experienced local attorneys to act as conflict counsel and to represent defendants in cases that speak to their expertise.
To that end we have had a fruitful relationship with William Conwell and Mitch Hauptman who have for over a year now served as either conflict counsel, or as primary counsel in major felony cases.
Originally contracted for $49k each (July 2024), and then amended for both to $98K each (March 2025), we are seeking a further increase to $125k each. An increase of $27k each or $54k in total of possible compensation. Both have served competently and in good faith.
For Mr. Hauptman this represents an amount sufficient to finish out his present cases, ending our contractual relationship. For Mr. Conwell this amount satisfies his current bill and is enough to continue to serve while the County and Public Defenders office navigate towards assuming these roles.
Recommended Action
(a) Approve Amendment No. 2 to Agreement to Services Contract Between the County of Lake and Mitchell Hauptman for Indigent Defense Services, and authorize the Board Chair to Sign.
(b) Approve Amendment No. 2 to Agreement to Services Contract Between the County of Lake and William Conwell for Indigent Defense Services, and authorize the Board Chair to Sign.
5.8Approve First Amendment to Contract Between County of Lake and Chabot-Las Positas Community College District (CLPCCD) for Title IV-E Training, in the Amount of $1,000,000 Per Fiscal Year from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2027, and Authorize the Chair to sign.
Agreement
passed on consent
Motion carried
Carried 5-0 — moved by Rasmussen
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Staff memo
Executive Summary
Chabot-Las Positas Community College District (CLPCCD) designs and conducts trainings that fulfill the requirements for Title IV-E federally funded training programs. The Title IV-E training is provided as requested by Lake County Department of Social Services (LCDSS) for staff who work with Title IV-E federally eligible children. CLPCCD collaborates with LCDSS to coordinate training topics, schedules, locations and other allowable activities as well as subcontracts with LCDSS approved Community Based Organizations to perform eligible services, including but not limited to Lake County Behavioral Health Services, Probation Department, First 5 Lake County, Redwood Community Services, and County Counsel.
The Contractor works together with LCDSS staff to establish the audiences for the trainings, as well as selecting which trainings and which instructors can best address the needs identified by LCDSS. LCDSS has expanded Title IV-E community trainings and targeted trainees include resource families, staff, and community partners who serve dependent youth under the Continuum of Care Reform legislation, and under the mandates derived from the Katie A. v. Bonta Lawsuit which focuses on the individual mental health care needs of dependent youth.
This first amendment to the contract changes the compensation to one million dollars ($1,000,000.00) per fiscal year, correcting an error which stated the yearly amount reflected the contract's total compensation, and removes the original contract's waiver of subrogation clause. The contractor is a member of the Statewide Association of Community Colleges, whose joint powers agreement precludes recovery of damages from a negligent party after a loss.
The Lake County Department of Social Services issued an RFP on April 1, 2024. CLPCCD was the only agency that submitted a proposal.
Recommended Action
Approve First Amendment to Contract between County of Lake and Chabot-Las Positas Community College District (CLPCCD) for Title IV-E Training, in the amount of $1,000,000 per fiscal year from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2027, and authorize the Chair to sign.
| Estimated Cost | $3,000,000.00 |
|---|---|
| Amount Budgeted | $3,000,000.00 |
On motion of Supervisor Rasmussen, and by vote of the Board, approved consent agenda items 5.1 through 5.8 with the exception of item 5.2 which was pulled for further discussion. The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes- Supervisors: 5 - Owen, Sabatier, Rasmussen, Pyska, and Crandell
6. Timed Items
6.19:02 A.M. - Public Input
Clerk’s notes: Public Members Sterling Wellman and Kevin Engle spoke.
6.29:03 A.M. - Pet of the Week
Presentation
Presentation Only.
Clerk’s notes: Animal Care and Control Officer Gabrielle Reil presented the pet of the week to the Board.
6.39:05 A.M. - Presentation of Proclamation Designating the Month of September 2025 as National Recovery Month in Lake County
Proclamation
Staff memo
Executive Summary
WHEREAS, Recovery Month recognizes the strong and proud recovery community, the dedication of service providers and community members in Lake County who assist and support individuals from prevention services to recovery; and
WHEREAS, Lake County Behavioral Health Services provided substance use disorder services to 437 participants, Hilltop Recovery Services provided 321 residential treatment beds and provided outpatient treatment to 23 clients, Redwood Community Services Tule House provided residential treatment services to 43 women and 18 children, and they also provided outpatient services to 1 client; and
WHEREAS, Lake County Behavioral Health Services provided mental health services to 1,751 individuals, Crisis/Mobile Crisis provided services to 822 individuals during the calendar year 2024; and
WHEREAS, nationally 28.2 million people in the US experienced a substance use disorder and 27.9 million had an Alcohol Use disorder, while 21.2 million experiences both substance use disorder and mental health disorders; and
WHEREAS, 7 in 10 adults who have substance use disorders, consider themselves recovering or in recovery and 2 in 3 adults who have mental health disorders consider themselves recovering or in recovery; and
WHEREAS, through promotion of Recovery Month, people from all walks of life are encouraged to become knowledgeable about what they can do to create a healthier tomorrow for themselves and others by helping to prevent these problems today; and
WHEREAS, Recovery is possible, and treatment is effective. People in recovery can and do become gainfully employed, own homes, follow their dreams, and rejoin their families and their communities.
WHEREAS, The County of Lake Board of Supervisors and Lake County Behavioral Health's Substance Use Disorder Services, Mental Health Services, Hilltop Recovery Services, Redwood Community Services, SafeRx, Hope Rising and Lake County Health Services urges all citizens, families, governmental agencies, public and private institutions, businesses, healthcare, education systems in Lake County to support efforts that will increase community awareness, understanding and action to address substance use disorder and mental health conditions in our community.
Recommended Action
Presentation of Proclamation Designating the Month of September 2025 as National Recovery Month in Lake County
This Ceremonial Item was read into the record and presented.
Clerk’s notes: Vice Chair Rasmussen read the proclamation into the record and presented it to the Lake County Community. Behavioral Health Director Elise Jones, Hilltop Recovery Services Lori Carter-Runyon, Outreach and Prevention Specialist Richard Occhino, and Staff Services Analyst Megan Morgan spoke.
Chair Crandell asked if anyone present wished to speak. No one wished to speak and the public input portion of this item was closed.
6.49:07 A.M. - Consideration of Lighting the Lake County Superior Courthouse in purple in recognition and honor of International Overdose Awareness Day
Action Item
Motion carried
Carried 5-0 — moved by Sabatier
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Staff memo
Executive Summary
Each year on the night of August 31, landmarks all around the world light up purple for International Overdose Awareness Day. It's one of the most visible and powerful ways we can raise awareness of the growing global overdose crisis and pay tribute to those who have tragically lost their lives. Over the years, we've seen amazing landmarks get involved, including LAX and Staples Centre in Los Angeles, the CN Tower in Toronto, Flinders St Station in Melbourne, and many more.
Together, we can make a powerful statement - that overdose is preventable, and we are committed to ending overdose in our communities. International Overdose Awareness Day is the world's largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind. The campaign raises awareness of overdose, which is one of the world's worst public health crises and stimulates action and discussion about evidence-based overdose prevention and drug policy.
The campaign also acknowledges the profound grief felt by families and friends whose loved ones have died or suffered permanent injury from a drug overdose. International Overdose Awareness Day spreads the message about the tragedy of drug overdose death and that drug overdose is preventable.
The goals of International Overdose Awareness Day are:
* To provide an opportunity for people to publicly mourn loved ones in a safe environment, some for the first time without feeling guilt or shame.
* To include the greatest number of people in International Overdose Awareness Day events and encourage non-denominational involvement.
* To provide information about the issue of fatal and non-fatal overdose.
* To send a strong message to current and former people who use drugs that they are valued.
* To stimulate discussion about overdose prevention and drug policy.
* To provide basic information on the range of support services that are available.
* To prevent and reduce drug-related harm by supporting evidence-based policy and practice.
* To inform people around the world about the risk of overdose.
International Overdose Awareness Day was initiated in 2001 by Sally J Finn at The Salvation Army in St Kilda, Melbourne.
Since 2001, many community members as well as government and non-government organizations have held events to raise awareness and commemorate those who have been lost to drug overdose.
Since 2012, International Overdose Awareness Day has been convened by the not-for-profit Australian public health organization Penington Institute.
Recommended Action
Approve lighting of the Lake County Superior Courthouse in Purple in recognition and honor of International Overdose Awareness Day.
On motion of Supervisor Sabatier, and by vote of the Board approved lighting the courthouse from August 26, 2025 through September 2, 2025. The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes- Supervisors: 5 - Owen, Sabatier, Rasmussen, Pyska, and Crandell
Clerk’s notes: Behavioral Health Director Elise Jones presented the item to the Board.
Chair Crandell asked if anyone present wished to speak. No one wished to speak and the public input portion of this item was closed.
6.59:15 A.M. - PUBLIC HEARING Consideration of Resolution approving Resolution No. 2025-5 submitted by Northshore Fire Protection District and making Findings and Requesting the County of Lake to Implement Fire Mitigation Fees with the Automatic Inflation pursuant to the Lake County Fire Mitigation Fee Ordinance FY2025/2026 (Continued from August 5th and 19th, 2025)
Public Hearing
Motion carried
Carried 5-0 — moved by Sabatier
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Staff memo
Executive Summary
The Mitigation Fee Act (California Government Code sections 66000, et seq.) provides authority for local governments to impose fees to offset the impacts of development on public facilities or services. The statute regulates how public agencies may collect, maintain, and spend development impact fees, including reporting requirements.
On May 21, 2024, your Board adopted Ordinance No. 3139, amending Article 1 of Chapter 27 of the Lake County Code relating to Fire Mitigation Fees. The Governing body of each Fire Agency adopts a capital fire facility and equipment plan in accordance with Government Code Section 66002, at a noticed public hearing. Agencies within the County may utilize their fire mitigation fee nexus studies as the document that includes their capital fire facility and equipment plan, per Government Section 66001(a)(2) and 66016.5.
Ordinance No. 3139 includes an Automatic Annual Inflation Adjustment clause:
The Fire Mitigation Fee will be automatically adjusted for inflation each year on July 1, commencing on July 1, 2025, without further action by the Board, by an amount equal to the percentage change of the Engineering News Record Building Cost Index (20-Cities Average) for the 12-month period ending in March before the adjustment takes place, pursuant to a resolution adopted by the Agency in accordance with Section 27-7(a) and (b).
Government Code Section 66018(a) requires a public hearing prior to approving an increase in an existing fee. This applies to any "local agency," which is defined to include an "agency, any other municipal public corporation or district . . ." Government Code Sections 66018.5 and 66000. A noticed public hearing by the Northshore Fire Protection District did not occur this year. Since the Districts' resolution approving the automatic adjustments under Ordinance No. 3139 would need to be approved in a noticed public hearing, staff has scheduled this noticed public hearing to have your Board approve the County of Lake Resolution approving Resolution submitted by Northshore Fire Protection District. Staff is currently researching possible amendments to Ordinance No. 3139 to make it more consistent with the public hearing requirements of Government Code Section 66018(a).
Attached please find the Resolution adopted by Northlake Fire Protection District making findings and requesting the County of Lake to implement fire mitigation fees with the automatic inflation pursuant to the Lake County Fire Mitigation Fee Ordinance.
Recommended Action
Adopt Resolution approving Resolution No. 2025-5 submitted by Northshore Fire Protection District and making Findings and Requesting the County of Lake to Implement Fire Mitigation Fees with the Automatic Inflation pursuant to the Lake County Fire Mitigation Fee Ordinance FY2025/2026.
On motion of Supervisor Sabatier, and by vote of the Board, continued the item to September 9, 2025 at 9:15 A.M. The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes- Supervisors: 5 - Owen, Sabatier, Rasmussen, Pyska, and Crandell
Clerk’s notes: County Administrative Officer Susan Parker presented the item to the Board. County Counsel Lloyd Guintivano spoke.
Chair Crandell asked if anyone present wished to speak. No one wished to speak and the public input portion of this item was closed.
23003 Northshore FPD Fire Mitigation Fee Nexus Study Report - Final Chapter 27 Mitigation Fees Ordinance 3139_FireMit_Admin - signed NFPD Reso 2024-35_2025 fees Notice_Fire Mitigation Fees_Northshore 2025 NFPD Reso 2025-5_Amend 2025 fees Reso_NorthshoreFireMitFee_08052025_CC signed NFPD Amended Reso 2025-5_2025 fees
6.69:30 A.M. - PUBLIC HEARING - Consideration of Appeal (PL-25-22; AB 24-06) of the Planning Commission's Approval of Major Use Permit (UP 23-05), and Initial Study (IS 23-10); for the AG Forest Wood Processing Bioenergy Project; locate at 755 East State Highway 20, Upper Lake (APN 004-010-04); Appellant: Larry Kahn (Continued from May 20, and June 17, 2025)
Public Hearing
Motion carried
Carried 5-0 — moved by Rasmussen
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Staff memo
Executive Summary
Larry Kahn has appealed the decision made by the Lake County Planning Commission on December 12, 2024, to approve Major Use Permit (UP 23-05) for the AG Forest Wood Processing Bioenergy Project which would allow the development of a wood processing and bioenergy facility, located at 755 E State Highway 20 in Upper Lake (APN 004-010-04) (Exhibit A). This appeal was continued at the May 20,2025 Board meeting to allow for additional time for Staff to confer with state agencies and respond to the Appellant's request for public records.
Background
Scotts Valley Energy Corporation (Applicant) has received grant funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration to develop a facility to process forest wood, removed from local forests to lower wildfire risk, into bioenergy. Biomass material will come from the contractors that are removing biomass such as tree branches from powerline rights-of-way and operations from forest clearing for reduction of fuel resources to help protect communities. The facility will operate as a central forest wood management and processing system for forest thinning biomass collected throughout Lake County. Exhibit B includes the staff report from the Planning Commission meeting. Exhibit C includes the Minutes for the meeting.
The project was originally scheduled for consideration by the Planning Commission on October 24, 2024, (Exhibit D), but was continued to December 12, 2024, to give the Community Development Department (CDD) and the Applicant time to address community concerns at a municipal advisory council meeting (Western Regional Town Hall [WRTH]). At the WRTH meeting on November 20, 2024, the Applicant, Community Development Department Director, and Staff addressed several concerns from the October 24, 2024, Planning Commission meeting: project's size and visibility from State Highway 20, air quality, possible removal of debris on the parcel, where the biomass materials come from, waterways on the parcel, flood zone, site plans, truck traffic, nearby neighbors, employees, etc. The Applicant provided a demonstration using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe to illustrate how large the biomass equipment would be with the help of participants from the meeting. Exhibit G includes the presentation that was presented to the WRTH by the Applicant.
Following the WRTH meeting, the Planning Commission again considered the Project on December 12, 2024, and approved the major use permit based on the Findings and subject to the Conditions included in the Staff Report, dated December 12, 2024 (Exhibit B).
Exhibit J includes a CEQA Handbook for Bioenergy and Wood Products Businesses Outreach.
At the request of Staff, this item was continued on both the May 20, 2025 and June 17, 2025 Board of Supervisors meeting.
Reason for Appeal Summary
Appellant Larry Kahn provided the following reasons for the appeal (Exhibit A):
1. Findings not yet submitted by licensed engineer, and not yet considered by the Planning Commission, for alleged violations of varying codes/laws/regulations. Please see attached for alleged Business and Profession code violations of application as submitted.
2. Findings not yet submitted, and not yet considered by the Planning Commission, on the designation of Highway 20 Scenic Highway that this project allegedly does not comply with.
3. Findings not yet submitted, and not yet considered by the Planning Commission, on gravel placement on Prime Ag Lands and other Prime Ag land protections.
4. Findings not yet submitted on alleged Air Quality Department and Staffing deficits for monitoring this approved project.
5. Findings not yet submitted, and not yet considered, of alleged Air Quality Contaminants from the approved Project.
Appeal Discussion
An appeal of approval of Major Use Permit (UP 23-05) was filed on December 12, 2024, to the Community Development Department. The Appellant submitted a written statement detailing the above listed reasons for their appeal. According to the Appellant's statements, the reasons for the appeal include the following:
1. Findings not yet submitted by licensed engineer for alleged violations of varying codes/laws/regulations.
Response: The appeal states that the project plans violate the following Business and Professions Codes (BPCs) 5536, 5536.1, 5536.2, 6735, 6735.3, 6735.4, 6787, 8726, 8792. A summary of each Code is provided in Exhibit I.
While the County is required to comply with all applicable State regulations related to land surveying and engineered plans, as well as the Lake County Code Chapters 5, 30, and 29, neither the final building nor grading plans are required at this stage of the use permit approval. These plans are required for completeness review of all projects, however, after approval of the use permit and prior to grading and building permit issuance. Further, Chapter 30 of the Lake County Code specifies when engineered plans are required, and if engineered plans are required, they must comply with the California Business and Professions Code. If grading plans are found to be out of compliance, pursuant to Lake County Code Article 56, Selection 21-56, subsection 56.7 (b) the grading permit can be appealed to the Board of Supervisors.
The 2022 California Building Code, Section 107[A] 107.1 requires that all construction documents shall be prepared by a registered design professional where required by the statutes of the jurisdiction in which the project is to be constructed. Based on the Lake County Code Chapter 5, Article III, Section 5-12, subsection 12.2, if building plans are approved by the Director of the Building and Safety Department but determined to be out of compliance with local and State regulations, "any person has the right to appeal that decision in writing to the Board of Appeal". This appeal mechanism allows individuals to challenge the Director's determination regarding the compliance of building plans with the Lake County Code by submitting a formal written appeal to the designated Board of Appeals. In California, if a county does not have a dedicated Board of Appeals for building code matters, the governing body of the county, as specified in California Health and Safety Code Sections 17920.5 and 17920.6, serves as the local appeals board. Therefore, since the Planning Commission approved the project, it would need to be appealed to the Board of Supervisors.
At the time of a permit submittal, the site plans must comply with the Lake County Code Zoning Ordinance Article 55, Section 21-55, subsection 55.2. The plans provided for Use Permit (UP 23-05) under this section for the approval of the applicable use permit do meet the requirements listed in Article 55.
2. Findings not yet submitted on the designation of Highway 20 Scenic Highway that this project allegedly does not comply with.
Response: The Scenic Highway Program is found in the California Code, Streets and Highways Code Sections 260 through 263. The State Scenic Highway System includes a list of highways that are either eligible for designation as State scenic highways or have been officially designated. Although Route 29 near Lower Lake/Route 20 East of Clearlake Oaks is eligible for designation, it has not been officially designated a Scenic Highway. Further, this section of highway is not impacted by the project or near the project site.
The project site has an overlay zone of "SC" Scenic Combining that is subject to the requirements in the Lake County Code Zoning Ordinance Article 34. This includes meeting the performance standards in Section 21-34.10, subsection 34.11. Screening has been addressed through the use permit with the adoption of the following mitigation measure:
AES-1: Prior to construction activities, a landscaping plan shall be submitted to the Community Development Department that includes the appropriate visual screening using drought resistant or indigenous vegetation. Water conservation shall be applied with the use of drip irrigation.
On the County's Google Earth shape file, a 500' setback has been identified from State Highway 20. However, the project site is beyond the setback.
In addition, with the exception of the water tank foundation, no permanent infrastructure is proposed with the project. The Applicant will be required to return the property to the same conditions existing at the time the lease agreement was entered into.
3. Findings not yet submitted on gravel placement on Prime Ag Lands and other Prime Ag land protections.
Response: Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, Division 13, Chapter 2.5, Section 21061.2 in determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site Assessment (LESA) Model prepared by the California Department of Conservation. Due to the parcel's designated "Prime Farmland" classification by the California Department of Conservation, a LESA assessment was prepared, and the Project which includes the gravel placement was found to have a less than significant impact on the prime farmland (Exhibit H).
4. Findings not yet submitted regarding the alleged Air Quality Department and Staffing deficits for monitoring this approved project.
Response: A Request for Review was sent to the Lake County Air Quality Management District (LCAQMD) on September 27, 2023, and comments were received. The comments have been added to the record, and mitigation measures recommended were incorporated into the Project requiring the Applicant to apply for an Authority to Construct permit among other things from the LCAQMD (Exhibit E). Whether the LCAQMD can or will process an Authority to Construct permit when an application is filed in the future is not an element of this use permit analysis.
5. Findings not yet submitted of alleged Air Quality Contaminants from such Project. This includes the air flow/lack of air flow within the community of Upper Lake.
Response: Comments and reports containing information and opinions on criteria for air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions related to the Project were analyzed by staff. Based on this analysis, staff concluded that emissions fell well below the California Air Resources Board's (CARB) thresholds of significance (Exhibit F). Air quality information on the project was provided by the Applicant's representative (Thomas Jordan), and was discussed at the October 24, 2024, and December 12, 2024, Planning Commission meetings, and at the Western Region Town Hall meeting on November 20, 2024 (Exhibit E).
Lastly, according to the LCAQMD, Lake County meets all Ambient Air Quality Standards (State and Federal) for clean, healthful air quality. Exceptions to this only occur during major wildfire events.
FINDINGS OF APPROVAL
On December 12, 2024, the Planning Commission found that, with the mitigation measures proposed in Initial Study, IS 23-10, the project would not have significant impact on the environment and adopted a Mitigated Negative Declaration. Required Findings of Approval can also be found in the Planning Commission Staff Report (Exhibit B). The Planning Commission also made the required "Findings of Approval" for Major Use Permit (UP 23-05).
EXHIBITS: Exhibit A:-Appeal Form (PL-25-22; AB 24-06)
Exhibit B:-Planning Commission Staff Report (December 12, 2024)
Exhibit C:-Planning Commission Meeting Minutes (December 12, 2024)
Exhibit D:-Planning Commission Meeting Agenda (October 24, 2024)
Exhibit E:-Lake County Air Quality Management District Comments
Exhibit F:-CARB Ambient Air Quality Standards and Air Quality Information
Exhibit G:-WRTH Site Presentation 11-18-2024 REV3
Exhibit H: -Land Evaluation & Site Assessment (LESA)
Exhibit I: -Business and Professions Codes Summary
Exhibit J:-CEQA Handbook for Bioenergy and Wood Products Businesses Outreach
Exhibit K:-Public Comments
Recommended Action
Deny Appeal (PL-25-22; AB 24-06) of Planning Commission's approval of Major Use Permit (UP 23-05), and Initial Study (IS 23-10); for the AG Forest Wood Processing Bioenergy Project; locate at 755 East State Highway 20, Upper Lake (APN 004-010-04), in concept and direct Staff to prepare Findings of Fact.
On motion of Supervisor Rasmussen, and by vote of the Board, continued the item to October 28, 2025 at 9:15 A.M. The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes- Supervisors: 5 - Owen, Sabatier, Rasmussen, Pyska, and Crandell
Clerk’s notes: Community Development Director Mireya Turner introduced the item to the Board.
Chair Crandell asked if anyone present wished to speak and the following people present in the Board of Supervisors Chambers spoke: Barbara Morris, Tom Jordan, Tom Lajcik, and Marsha Burch. No one else wished to speak and the public input portion of this item was closed.
Scotts Valley REC_signed LawyerMarshaBurch_RePRAWoodProcessingIS23-10_LackOfResponse_06112025 BOS_BarbaraMorris_ContinuanceDate_June152025 LetterToBOS_TerraMorris_UpperLakeAppealHearing_06122025 2025.05.13 Appeal Letter re Ag Forest Exhibit A Appeal Form AB 24-06 Exhibit B Planning Commission Staff Report (December 12, 2024) Exhibit C Planning Commission Meeting Minutes (December 12, 2024) Exhibit D Planning Commission Meeting Agenda (October 24, 2024) Exhibit E Lake County Air Quality Management District Comments Exhibit F CARB and Air Quality Information Exhibit G WRTH SITE PRESENTATION 11-18-2024 REV3 Exhibit H Land Evaluation & Site Assessment (LESA) Exhibit I Business and Professions Codes Summary Exhibit J CEQA Handbook for Bioenergy and Wood Products Businesses Outreach Exhibit K Public Comments Public Comment 2025.05.13 Appeal Letter re Ag Forest 2025.08.21 Appeal Letter Update re AG Forest Ex A 2025.06.11 Email re PRA requests AG Forest Ex B Email re DWR investigation Ex C Aug. 13 PRA to Lake County
6.71:00 P.M. - Consideration of Planning Commission Recommendations of Proposed Development Agreement (DA 24-01), Zoning Ordinance Amendment (AM 24-01), General Plan Map Amendment (GPAP 24-01, Guenoc Valley Site), General Plan Text Amendment (GPAP 24-02), Rezone (RZ 24-01, Santa Clara, Middletown Housing Site), General Plan of Development (GPD 24-01), Rezone (RZ 24-02); and consideration of a Water Supply Assessment for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project at the following locations: 22671, 22901, 23534, 23573, 24221, 24566, 24783, 25111 Grange Rd; 22500, 23597, 24563, 26753 Jerusalem Grade Rd; 22900, 23510, 25470, 23450 Guenoc Valley Road; 23790, 23120, 24245, 24355, 24385, 24425, 24275, 24683, 24733 Bohn Valley Rd; 19506, 19862, 21323, 21423, 21423, 21523, 21665, 22000, 22110, 22725, 22880, 23150, 23351, 23250, 23350, 23375, 23400, 23650, 24150, 24305, 24350, 24090 Butts Canyon Road; 23501 Oat Hill Road; 21000 Santa Clara Road; and 20740, 20830 State Highway 29 (APNs: 013-015-59 & 60; 013-016-06, 08, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 & 19; 013-019-22, 23, 24 & 25; 013-021-05, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 & 26; 013-022-08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 & 24; 013-023-06, 09, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 & 25; 013-024-29, 30, 31, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39 & 40; 013-053-01; 014-004-25; 014-310-07 & 09; 014-320-08 & 10; 014-330-09; 014-340-04, and 014-380-09). Applicant: Lotusland Investment Holdings, Inc.
Action Item
Motion carried · 5 motions
Carried 5-0 — moved by Owen
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Carried 5-0 — moved by Owen
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Carried 5-0 — moved by Owen
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Carried 5-0 — moved by Owen
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Carried 5-0 — moved by Owen
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Crandell: aye Owen: aye Pyska: aye Rasmussen: aye Sabatier: aye
Staff memo
BOARD MEMORANDUM
TO: Board of Supervisors
FROM: Mireya G. Turner, Director
Michelle Irace, Senior Planner
Laura Hall, Senior Planner
DATE: August 26, 2025
SUBJECT: Consideration of a Planning Commission recommendations of proposed Development Agreement (DA 24-01), Zoning Ordinance Amendment (AM 24-01), General Plan Map Amendment (GPAP 24-01), General Plan Text Amendment (GPAP 24-02), Rezone (RZ 24-01, Guenoc Valley Site), General Plan of Development (GPD 24-01), Rezone (RZ 24-02, Santa Clara, Middletown Housing Site); and consideration of a Water Supply Assessment for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project at the following locations: 22671, 22901, 23534, 23573, 24221, 24566, 24783, 25111 Grange Rd; 22500, 23597, 24563, 26753 Jerusalem Grade Rd; 22900, 23510, 25470, 23450 Guenoc Valley Road; 23790, 23120, 24245, 24355, 24385, 24425, 24275, 24683, 24733 Bohn Valley Rd; 19506, 19862, 21323, 21423, 21423, 21523, 21665, 22000, 22110, 22725, 22880, 23150, 23351, 23250, 23350, 23375, 23400, 23650, 24150, 24305, 24350, 24090 Butts Canyon Road; 23501 Oat Hill Road; 21000 Santa Clara Road; and 20740, 20830 State Highway 29 (APNs: 013-015-59 & 60; 013-016-06, 08, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 & 19; 013-019-22, 23, 24 & 25; 013-021-05, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 & 26; 013-022-08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 & 24; 013-023-06, 09, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 & 25; 013-024-29, 30, 31, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39 & 40; 013-053-01; 014-004-25; 014-310-07 & 09; 014-320-08 & 10; 014-330-09; 014-340-04, and 014-380-09). Applicant: Lotusland Investment Holdings, Inc.
Exhibits:
A. July 24, 2025 Planning Commission Staff Report
Please note: Attachments to the Staff Report (Proposed General Plan and Specific Plan of Development; Final EIR, Draft EIR and Partially Revised Draft EIR; Draft Conditions of Approval; Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program; Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations; Agency review comments; tribal comments; General plan and zoning maps; and draft Resolutions and Ordinances) can be found online at:
https://countyoflake.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=A&ID=1268521&GUID=27B738B0-42C1-4A6F-9AD6-41830E09BEC8
B. July 24, 2025 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
C. August 8, 2025 Planning Commission Staff Report (dated July 31, 2025)
Please note: Attachments to the Supplemental Staff Report (Conditions of Approval; Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program; Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations; and Response to Attorney General Comments) can be found online at:
https://countyoflake.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=A&ID=1328716&GUID=D62C7875-3C27-4F89-9305-460A23FEC1D0
C.1. 'Greensheet' public comments received for August 8 hearing
C.2. Conditions of Approval, updated August 8, 2025
D. August 8, 2025 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes (Draft)
E. Mitigation Monitoring Program, Findings of Fact, and Statement of Overriding Considerations, certified and adopted by Planning Commission on August 8, 2025
F. Draft Ordinance Establishing Guenoc Valley District (GVD) Development Standards
G. Draft Ordinance for GVD Zoning Map Rezone (RZ) (PL-25-112: AM 24-01)
H. Draft Ordinance Santa Clara Site Rezone (PL-25-112: 24-02)
I. Draft Resolution for Guenoc Development Agreement (PL-25-112: DA 24-01: GPD 24-01)
J. Draft Resolution for General Plan Amendment Policy (GPAP) LU 6.12
K. Draft Resolution for GV General Plan Amendment (PL-25-112: GPAP 24-01 and GPAP 24-02)
L. Draft Resolution for Water Supply Assessment
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Project) includes the development of a master planned mixed-use resort and residential community within a portion of the Guenoc Valley Ranch property (Guenoc Valley Site or Project Site). The Project includes a General Plan amendment to designate the 16,000-acre Guenoc Valley Site as Resort Commercial and rezone to Guenoc Valley District (GVD). At full buildout, throughout multiple phases, this Project would allow for the development of up to 400 hotel rooms, 450 resort residential units, 1,400 residential estates, and 500 workforce co-housing units within the zoning district. Phase 1 of the Project includes the phased subdivision and related entitlements to allow up to 385 residential villas, 141 resort residential units, 147 hotel units, and accessory resort and commercial uses. In addition, Phase 1 includes a subdivision and rezoning of an off-site parcel (Middletown Housing Site) to accommodate 21 single family residences with optional accessory dwelling units, 29 duplex units in 15 structures, and a community clubhouse and associated infrastructure. Other off-site infrastructure improvements under Phase 1 analyzed include a proposed water supply well on an off-site parcel (Off-Site Well Site) and pipeline located adjacent to and within Butts Canyon Road, along with intersection and electrical transmission line improvements (collectively referred to as 'Off-Site Improvements'). Please refer to the July 24 and August 8, 2025 Planning Commission hearing staff reports (Exhibits A and C to this Memorandum), for further Project details. Tentative subdivision map approval for the Guenoc Valley Site (SD 24-01 Maha Farm; SD 24-02 Equestrian Center; SD 24 -03 Denniston Golf Estates; SD 24-04 Bohn Ridge) and the Middletown Housing Site (SD 24-05 Santa Clara) will be sought separately at a future time.
A Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was prepared in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and consists of the entire 2020 EIR (Draft EIR, Final EIR, and Final EIR Errata), the Partially Revised EIR (PREIR; July 2024 Draft PREIR, March 2025 Draft PREIR and July 2025 Final PREIR), and all appendices thereto and all of the supporting information. Each of the 2020 Draft and Final EIR, the Final EIR Errata, and the 2025 Draft and Final Partially Revised EIR (EIR 24-01) can be viewed on the Lake County website at: https://lakecountyca.gov/Guenoc-Valley, or on the State Clearinghouse website under the following link and number: SCH No. 20190491341. Refer to the EIR and July 24, 2025 Planning Commission Staff Report in Exhibit A for a detailed project description and location figures (Figure 1 includes the Project parcel map and Figure 2 provides a regional map of the Guenoc Valley Site, Middletown Housing Site, and Off-Site Well Site). The Mitigation Monitoring Program, Findings of Fact, and Statement of Overriding Considerations, certified and adopted by Planning Commission on August 8, 2025, are included in Exhibit E to this Board Memorandum.
SUMMARY OF PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION
On July 24, 2025, the Community Development Department, Planning Division brought the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development before the Planning Commission. A detailed presentation of the Project was given and public comment was received. The Planning Commission continued the item to August 8, 2025, to allow additional time to review all necessary documents, and complete site visits. Draft Minutes of the July 24 Planning Commission meeting are included in Exhibit B. The July 24 Planning Commission hearing and documents may be viewed online at: https://lakecounty.granicus.com/player/clip/788?view_id=1&redirect=true
On July 25, 2025 comments were received from the State Attorney General's Office to Lotusland Investment Holdings, Inc. (Applicant). While the Attorney General's letter was addressed to the Applicant and not the County, and CEQA does not require written responses to comments received outside of the public circulation period, the County provided clarifications on how the issues raised in the letter from the Attorney General were already addressed within the EIR and associated technical appendices, and described what clarifications were made in response to the requests in the letter. Comments are addressed in a supplemental Staff Report, dated July 31, 2025, via modifications to the Conditions of Approval and clarifications to the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program and Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations. The Attorney General's Office comments are included as an attachment to the August 8 Staff Report (dated July 31, 2025). The August 8 Planning Commission meeting and documents, including public comment, may be viewed online at:
https://lakecounty.granicus.com/player/clip/791?view_id=1&redirect=true
On August 8, 2025, the Planning Commission took the following action (Draft Minutes of the August 8 meeting are included in Exhibit D):
1. Certified the Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR; SCH No. 2019049134) and adopted the accompanying CEQA Findings of Fact, Statement of Overriding Considerations and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting program (EIR 24-01) pursuant to the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act.
2. Approved Use Permit (PL-25-112; UP 24-05), as amended, for the Guenoc Valley Site, conditioned upon approval of the General Plan Amendments (GPAP 24-01 and 24-02) and zoning ordinance amendment (AM 24-01) by the Board of Supervisors. (Amendments include a condition regarding offsite water use, and non-substantive typographical errors).
3. Approved Use Permit (PL-25-112; UP 24-08) for the Middletown Housing Site (this includes the community clubhouse), conditioned upon approval of the zoning amendment (RZ 24-02) by the Board of Supervisors.
4. Recommended the Board of Supervisors adopt an ordinance rezoning the Guenoc Valley Site parcels to a Guenoc Valley-Specific District, amending the zoning map and adding a new chapter to the zoning code pertaining to development in that district, and specifying design guidelines for future development in that district.
5. Recommended the Board of Supervisors approve a General Plan Amendment, Rezone, General Plan of Development, Specific Plan of Development, and Development Agreement.
6. Failed to recommend approval of the Rezone of the interior portion of the Santa Clara site from Single Family Residential (R1) to Two-family Residential (R2). The failed vote (2-2-1, Commissioner Field absent) caused the automatic denial of this aspect of the Project, and its automatic appeal to the Board.
7. Approved the Use Permit to allow for the community clubhouse at the Santa Clara site. After the Planning Commission meeting, it was determined that this motion was a duplication of action no. 3 above.
After the August 8 Planning Commission meeting, typographical errors were found in various documents prompting a Special Meeting of the Planning Commission on August 18, 2025, to correct the errors out of an abundance of caution. Corrected versions of these documents have been included in this agenda item, as Exhibit F and J, respectively.
SUMMARY OF BOARD ACTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION
The Board will consider the Planning Commission recommendations related to the General Plan Amendment and Rezone(s) for the Guenoc Valley-Specific zoning and Santa Clara (Middletown Housing) Site. The Board will also consider approval of the Development Agreement and water supply analysis. Below is a summary of the specific project components requiring Board action, as well as a summary of Staff's analysis. Further details and analysis can be found in the aforementioned Planning Commission staff reports.
1. General Plan Map (GPAP 24-01) and Text Amendment (GPAP 24-02) of the Guenoc Valley Site parcels General Plan of Development. The Guenoc Valley Site consists of 82 existing parcels within approximately 16,000 acres of land. The Guenoc Valley Site is currently under General Plan land use designations of Agricultural, Resource Conservation, Rural Lands, and Rural Residential, and proposed to be Resort Commercial. This action includes a Resolution to amend the General Plan land use designations for the Guenoc Valley Site to Resort Commercial, consistent with the intent of the Area Plan. The General Plan of Development outlines the intention of the entire development area and allows mixed-use development. The overall approvals would allow a mixed-use development which would include a total of 400 hotel units, 450 resort residential units, and 1,400 residential estate villas at the maximum buildout of the entire proposed GVD. Phase I (Specific Plan) of the General Plan of Development includes four resort communities that are included in the Use Permit approved by the Planning Commission. The first phase (Phase 1) will be constructed in the near term (approximately the next ten years) and future phases (via Tentative Subdivision maps, Specific Plan of Development and Use Permits) will be realized based on market trends. Refer to Attachment 9, General Plan of Development, and Attachment 10, Specific Plan of Development, of the July 24, 2025, Planning Commission Staff Report; and the analysis within the Staff Report for more information.
The Middletown Area Plan included three special study areas, of which, Special Study Area No. 3, Langtry/Guenoc, covers most of the Guenoc Valley Site. This proposal includes a request to amend the General Plan land use designations for the Guenoc Valley Site to Resort Commercial, consistent with the intent of the Area Plan. This designation would allow the proposed mixed-use development. Additionally, it is requested to amend Langtry/Guenoc Special Study Area map of the Middletown Area Plan to include the area commonly known as the college parcels (see Attachment 8, General Plan and Zoning Maps, of the July 24 Planning Commission Staff Report). Findings for approval are discussed in detail beginning on pg. 34 of the July 24, 2025, Planning Commission Staff Report and summarized below in the Recommendations section of this memo. The Draft Resolution for the GVD General Plan Amendment is included in Exhibit K.
2. Rezone (RZ 24- 01) and Zoning Text Amendment (AM 24-01) of the Guenoc Valley Site parcels to a Guenoc Valley-Specific District. This ordinance would change the County of Lake Zoning Map for the entire Site area, with the exception of the offsite workforce housing site, from various base zoning districts, into a new zoning district: "GVD" Guenoc Valley Zoning District. All existing overlay districts would remain ("W" Wetlands, "WW" Waterway, "SC" Scenic Combining, and "FF" Floodway Fringe). This includes adding a new chapter to the zoning code pertaining to development in that district, and specifying design guidelines for future development in that district (see Table 1, Primary Uses, of the July 24, 2025 Planning Commission Staff Report). The existing zoning on the Guenoc Valley Site consists of "RL" Rural Lands, "A" Agriculture, "RR" Rural Residential, and "APZ" Agricultural Preserve Zone. The Board will consider adopting an Ordinance Establishing Regulations and Development Standards for the Guenoc Valley Zoning District or GVD District - This ordinance would establish regulations and development standards for the Project, including requiring a use permit for proposed development that must comply with the General Plan of Development, permitted land uses within the Project area, development standards including: utilities and infrastructure, site design, lot size, lot coverage, maximum height structure, density, circulation and parking, details for the Agricultural Preserve and Open Space Preservation Combining Districts, Design Guidelines, Phasing of Development and Lapse of Approval. Please refer to the July 24, 2025 Planning Commission Staff Report (beginning on pg. 15), for a list of development standards, as well as Staff's analysis. Findings for approval are discussed in detail beginning on pg. 34 of the July 24, 2025, Planning Commission Staff Report and summarized below in the Recommendations section of this memo. The Draft Ordinance for the Zoning Code text amendment is included in Exhibit F and the Draft Ordinance for the Map amendment is included as Exhibit G.
3. Rezone (RZ 24-02) of the interior portion of the Santa Clara (also referred to as the "Middletown Housing") site from Single-Family Residential (R1) to Two-family Residential (R2). The Board will consider adopting an Ordinance Amending Section 21-3.7 of Chapter 21 of the Ordinance Code of the County of Lake by Adopting a Sectional District Zoning Map No. 3.7(b) 1.xxx - This Ordinance would change the County of Lake Zoning Map at the proposed Santa Clara Work Force Housing Site from "R1-FF-FW-WW" Single-Family Residential-Floodway Fringe-Floodway-Waterway to "R2-FF-FW-WW" Two-Family Residential-Floodway Fringe-Floodway-Waterway. The housing units would be occupied by various essential staff members supporting the operation of the Guenoc report and other facilities. The Rezone to R2 would allow for the development of duplexes on a portion of the parcel, located at 21000 Santa Clara Road, Middletown (APN 014-380-09). The Draft Ordinance is included in Exhibit H.
The Planning Commission approved the Use Permit to allow for construction of more than five duplexes, but voted 2-2-1, (Commissioner Field absent) on the proposed Rezone. According to Planning Commission bylaws, when there is a tied vote, the motion automatically fails and is automatically forwarded to the Board of Supervisors as an appeal. As discussed within the July 24, 2025 Planning Commission Staff Report (beginning on pg. 29), the proposed Rezone complies with the R2 Zoning District development standards and the proposed density is compatible with the existing surrounding land uses. Lastly, as a part of the Building Permit process, the Planning Division will perform a Zoning Clearance (ZC) to ensure the proposed use has met all necessary regulations, and adheres to the approved project.
Findings for approval are discussed in detail beginning on pg. 34 of the July 24, 2025, Planning Commission Staff Report and summarized below in the Recommendations section of this memo.
4. Development Agreement (DA 24-01). To strengthen the public planning process, encourage private participation in comprehensive planning and reduce the economic risk of development, the legislature of the State of California adopted Government Code Sections 65864, et seq. Development Agreements are regulated within Article 69 of the Lake County Zoning Code. The proposed Development Agreement outlines the Project as described in the General Plan of Development and Specific Plan of Development for the new zoning district GVD, which is a combination of PDR and PDC, in response to the goals and objectives of the Middletown Area. Findings for approval are discussed in detail on pg. 40 of the July 24, 2025, Planning Commission Staff Report and are summarized below. The Development Agreement and Resolution to adopt the Development Agreement is included in Exhibit I.
5. Water Supply Assessment. A Water Feasibility Report and Water Supply Assessment was completed for the 2020 EIR. The County requested additional information on several water-supply related topics during preparation of the Draft PREIR. As a result, a Water Supply Technical Memorandum was prepared that includes additional details on the mitigation measure pertaining to the off-site well, the PG&E Contamination Plume, and off-site groundwater users. To comply with Lake County Ordinance 3106, enacted after the 2020 EIR was prepared, a Drought Management Plan was prepared (Appendix G-2 of the Draft PREIR). These analyses conclude that groundwater availability is sufficient to meet project demands, even under dry and very dry conditions, and that existing and proposed wells can reliably supply potable and non-potable water for all project phases. Additionally, the Drought Management Plan outlines a staged conservation program to reduce water use, monitor system capacity, and ensure water supply reliability for potable, golf course, and equestrian center uses during declared droughts. Together, these findings demonstrate that the site can provide an adequate private water system consistent with the regulatory requirements of the State Water Resource Control Board - Division of Drinking Water. Wastewater will be treated onsite and subject to regulation and permitting by the Regional Water Quality Control Board. A Resolution certifying the Water Supply Assessment is included in Exhibit L.
FINDINGS FOR APPROVAL
Findings for approval are discussed in detail beginning on pg. 34 of the July 24, 2025, Planning Commission Staff Report and are summarized below.
General Plan Amendment
1. The proposed amendment is consistent with the General Plan and the Middletown Area Plan.
2. That the establishment, maintenance, or operation of the use applied for will not under the circumstances of the particular case, be detrimental to the health, safety, morals, comfort and general welfare of the persons residing or working in the neighborhood of such proposed use or be detrimental to property and improvements in the neighborhood or the general welfare of the County.
3. The proposed land use designation change is in the public best interest, there will be a community benefit, and other existing and allowed uses will not be compromised.
4. Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect as identified in the final EIR. Specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including provision of employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the mitigation measures or project alternatives identified in the final EIR.
Rezone and General Plan of Development
1. That the project is in conformance with the applicable provisions and policies of this Code, the General Plan, Lake County Zoning Ordinance and any approved zoning or land use plan.
2. That there are adequate public or private services, including but not limited to fire protection, water supply, sewage disposal, and police protection to serve the project.
3. That the site for the project is adequate in size, shape, location, and physical characteristics to accommodate the type of use and level of development proposed.
4. That the streets, highways and pedestrian facilities are reasonably adequate to safely accommodate the specific proposed use.
Development Agreement
1. Is consistent with the objectives, policies, general land uses and programs specified in the general plan and any applicable specific plan or community plan.
2. Is compatible with the uses authorized in, and the regulations prescribed for, the zoning district in which the real property is located.
3. Will be detrimental to the public health, safety and general welfare.
4. Will adversely affect the orderly development of property or the preservation of property values.
Water Supply Assessment
1. The Water Supply Assessment complies with the requirements of the California Water Code Section 10910 et seq. and demonstrates that projected water supplies will be sufficient to meet the demands of the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project, including both Phase One and future phases, along with other planned future development and existing uses.
2. The WSA concludes that water supplies will remain adequate through 2040, with projected surpluses, and that demand can be met without overdrafting groundwater resources or exceeding the available surface water allocations for the Project.
3. The Final EIR (SCH No. 2019049134) for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Development Project, which includes an analysis of groundwater impacts and water availability, was certified by the Planning Commission on August 8, 2025.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the findings, information and analyses contained within the July 24, and August 8, 2025 (dated July 31, 2025) Planning Commission Staff Reports, as well as this Board memo, dated August 26, 2025, Staff recommends the Board take the following actions for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (PL-25-112):
1. Approve the first reading of the Draft Ordinance Establishing Regulations and Development Standards for the Guenoc Valley Zoning District Or "GVD" District (Exhibit F), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum dated August 26, 2025, and advance to next available Board agenda (September 9, 2025).
2. Adopt the Draft Ordinance Amending Section 21-3.7 of Chapter 21 of the Ordinance Code of the County of Lake by Adopting a Sectional District Zoning Map No. 3.7(B) 1.XX Rezoning (RZ 24-01 and AM 24-01) the lands for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Exhibit G), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025.
3. Uphold the Automatic Appeal and Adopt the Draft Ordinance Amending Section 21-3.7 of Chapter 21 of the Ordinance Code of the County of Lake By Adopting A Sectional District Zoning Map No. 3.7(B) 1.XX Rezoning (RZ 24-02) the Lands for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project - Santa Clara Housing Site (Exhibit H), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025.
4. Adopt the Draft Resolution Approving the Development Agreement (DA 24-01) for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Exhibit I), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025.
5. Adopt the Draft Resolution Adopting an Amendment to the Lake General Plan Policy LU 6.12 (GPAP 24-02) for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Exhibit J), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025.
6. Adopt the Draft Resolution Adopting an Amendment to the Lake County General Plan and Middletown Area Plan (GPAP 24-01) for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Exhibit K), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025.
7. Adopt the Draft Resolution Approving the Water Supply Assessment Report for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Exhibit L), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025.
SAMPLE MOTIONS
1. I move that the Board of Supervisors approve the first reading of the Draft Ordinance Establishing Regulations and Development Standards for the Guenoc Valley Zoning District Or "GVD" District (Exhibit F), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum dated August 26, 2025, and advance to next available Board agenda (September 9, 2025).
2. I move that the Board of Supervisors approve the first reading and adopt the Draft Ordinance Amending Section 21-3.7 of Chapter 21 of the Ordinance Code of the County of Lake by Adopting a Sectional District Zoning Map No. 3.7(B) 1.XX Rezoning (RZ 24-01 and AM 24-01) the lands for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Exhibit G), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025.
3. I move that the Board of Supervisors uphold the Automatic Appeal, approve the first reading and adopt the Draft Ordinance Amending Section 21-3.7 of Chapter 21 of the Ordinance Code of the County of Lake By Adopting A Sectional District Zoning Map No. 3.7(B) 1.XX Rezoning (RZ 24-02) the Lands for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project - Santa Clara Housing Site (Exhibit H), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025.
4. I move that the Board of Supervisors adopt the Draft Resolution approving the Development Agreement (DA 24-01) for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Exhibit I), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025.
5. I move that the Board of Supervisors adopt the Draft Resolution adopting an Amendment to the Lake General Plan Policy LU 6.12 (GPAP 24-02) for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Exhibit J), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025.
6. I move that the Board of Supervisors adopt the Draft Resolution adopting an Amendment to the Lake County General Plan and Middletown Area Plan (GPAP 24-01) for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Exhibit K), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025.
7. I move that the Board of Supervisors adopt the Draft Resolution approving the Water Supply Assessment Report for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Exhibit L), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025.
1 The 2020 EIR, including Draft EIR, Final EIR, and Final EIR Errata, is provided as Appendix D to the March 2025 Draft PREIR.
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a) On motion of Supervisor Owen, and by vote of the Board, waived the reading of the ordinance to have it read in title only as amended as stated by Community Development Director Mireya Turner based on the findings in the Board's memorandum dated August 26, 2025. The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes- Supervisors: 5 - Owen, Sabatier, Rasmussen, Pyska, and Crandell
b) On motion of Supervisor Owen, and by vote of the Board, approved the first reading of the ordinance to be read in title only as amended as stated by County Counsel Lloyd Guintivano based on the findings in the Board's memorandum dated August 26, 2025. The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes- Supervisors: 5 - Owen, Sabatier, Rasmussen, Pyska, and Crandell
c) On motion of Supervisor Owen, and by vote of the Board, granted the appeal based on the findings in the Board's memorandum dated August 26, 2025 and based on the findings made on pages 38-39 of the July 24, 2025 staff report. The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes- Supervisors: 5 - Owen, Sabatier, Rasmussen, Pyska, and Crandell
d) On motion of Supervisor Owen, and by vote of the Board, approved the first reading of the ordinance to be read in title only as amended as stated by Community Development Director Mireya Turner based on the findings in the Board's memorandum dated August 26, 2025. The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes- Supervisors: 5 - Owen, Sabatier, Rasmussen, Pyska, and Crandell
e) On motion of Supervisor Owen, and by vote of the Board, moved that the draft ordinance be advanced to the September 9, 2025 Board of Supervisors Meeting for consideration and possible adoption. The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes- Supervisors: 5 - Owen, Sabatier, Rasmussen, Pyska, and Crandell
f) Supervisor Owen offered the resolution as amended as stated by Deputy County Counsel Nicole Johnson approving the Development Agreement (DA 24-01) for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Exhibit I), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025 and it passed by roll call vote:
Ayes- Supervisors: 5 - Owen, Sabatier, Rasmussen, Pyska, and Crandell
g) Supervisor Owen offered the Resolution adopting an Amendment to the Lake General Plan Policy LU 6.12 (GPAP 24-02) for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Exhibit J), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025 and it passed by roll call vote:
Ayes- Supervisors: 5 - Owen, Sabatier, Rasmussen, Pyska, and Crandell
h) Supervisor Owen offered the Resolution adopting an Amendment to the Lake County General Plan and Middletown Area Plan (GPAP 24-01) for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Exhibit K), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025 and it passed by roll call vote:
Ayes- Supervisors: 5 - Owen, Sabatier, Rasmussen, Pyska, and Crandell
i) Supervisor Owen offered the Resolution approving the Water Supply Assessment Report for the Guenoc Valley Mixed Use Planned Development Project (Exhibit L), based on the findings in the Board Memorandum, dated August 26, 2025 and it passed by roll call vote:
Ayes- Supervisors: 5 - Owen, Sabatier, Rasmussen, Pyska, and Crandell
Clerk’s notes: Community Development Director Mireya Turner introduced the item to the Board. Senior Planner Laura Hall and MAHA Representatives Kevin Case and Jonathan Breene presented the item to the Board. County Counsel Lloyd Guintivano and Deputy County Counsel Nicole Johnson spoke.
Chair Crandell asked if anyone present wished to speak and the following people present in the Board of Supervisors Chambers spoke: Joshua Dimon, Don Smith, Max Hopkins, Chris Snyder, Blue Ryan, Rob Hodil, Jeff Crane, Chief Deputy County Administrative Officer Matthew Rothstein read comment from Deputy County Administrative Officer Lisa Judd, Doris Parker, Shannon Sanders, Justin Ingram, Amanda Martin, Shane Stanger, Margaux Kambara, Todd Fiora, Tom Lajcik, and Nancy Ruzicka. The following person spoke via Zoom: Kathleen Cutter. No one else wished to speak and the public input portion of this item was closed.
Exhibit A. July 24, 2025 Staff Report (Planning Commission) Exhibit B. July 24, 2025, Planning Commission Minutes Exhibit C. August 8, 2025, Supplemental Staff Report, dated July 31 (Planning Commission) Exhibit C.1. Greensheet comments for August 8 PC Meeting Exhibit F. Draft Ordinance Establishing GVD Development Standards Exhibit G. Draft Ordinance for GVD Zoning Map Rezone Exhibit H. Draft Ordinance Santa Clara Site Rezone Exhibit I. Draft Resolution Guenoc Development Agreement Exhibit J. Draft Resolution for General Plan Text Amendment - Policy LU 6.12 Exhibit K. Draft Resolution for GV General Plan Amendment Exhibit L. Draft Resolution for Water Supply Assessment Exhibit E. Mitigation Monitoring & Reporting Program, CEQA Findings of Fact & Statement of Overriding Considerations Exhibit C.2. Updated Draft Conditions of Approval 8.8.25 Exhibit D. August 8, 2025 PC Minutes-Draft Public Comment_Lisa Kaplan IMG_5297 IMG_5298 IMG_5299 LCCC Letter of Support for Guenoc Public Comment_LingziChen
7. Non-Timed Items
7.1Supervisors’ weekly calendar, travel and reports
7.2Consideration of Appointing Qualified Candidates In Lieu of a General District Election for the Scotts Valley Water Conservation District Under Elections Code Section 10515
Action Item
Staff memo
Executive Summary
Elections Code Section 10515 requires the Registrar of Voters to submit a certificate of facts to the Board of Supervisors when the number of persons who have filed a Declaration of Candidacy for director does not exceed the number of offices of director to be filled at a general district election. To comply with Section 10515, I am submitting the required certificate of facts, attached, and requesting that the Board of Supervisors, acting as the supervising authority of the Scotts Valley Water Conservation District, appoint candidates who would be qualified on the date the election would have been held to fill those director positions that will be vacant due to no persons filing a declaration of candidacy for the November 4, 2025, election prior to December 1, 2025.
Recommended Action
(a) In lieu of holding a general district election on November 4, 2025 for the Scotts Valley Water Conservation District, the Board of Supervisors directs staff to find qualified candidates to be appointed to the positions that will be vacant due to no persons filing a declaration of candidacy for the November 4, 2025, election.
(b) The Board of Supervisors schedule a date to choose qualified candidates from action item (a) to fill the vacancies at least two weeks prior to the December 1, 2025, selection deadline.
(c) The Board of Supervisors directs staff to draft a resolution appointing the candidates chosen in action item (b) to fill the vacancies prior to the date selected in action item (d).
(d) The Board of Supervisors schedule a date to pass the resolution from action item (c) appointing the candidates to fill the vacancies at least one week prior to the December 1, 2025, selection deadline.
Direction was given to staff to put out a recruitment notice for qualified applicants, have staff track their time, draft a resolution, and should qualified applicants be found to schedule a date to appoint candidates.
Clerk’s notes: Registrar of Voters Maria Valadez presented the item to the Board.
Chair Crandell asked if anyone present wished to speak and the following person spoke via Zoom: Betsy Cawn. No one else wished to speak and the public input portion of this item was closed.
7.3Consideration of Update Regarding Public Guardian Conservatee “BB”
Report
Staff memo
Executive Summary
On October 17, 2024, your board approved a patch payment for Public Guardian conservatee, "BB", from general funds in the amount of $30,000 to cover six (6) months of placement. Public Guardian receives no State or Federal funding to operate. Although BB had Medi-Cal coverage, the only facility that would accept BB did not accept Medi-Cal. Placement fees were $5,000 per month. On November 1, 2024, BB was placed in care while Public Guardian continued to seek a Medi-Cal covered placement for BB. On April 15, 2025, your board approved an additional $15,000 to cover three (3) additional months of placement, while Public Guardian continued to seek a Medi-Cal covered placement. To date, BB remains in a private-pay facility.
On May 21, 2025, Public Guardian was able to relocate BB to a less expensive private pay facility, with a base rate of $3,600 per month. Once approved, BB's Veteran's and Social Security benefits will be approximately $3,600 per month. On Jun 15, 2025, BB began receiving his $1,784 per month Social Security payments. Most of his back-pay was withheld by Social Security to repay previous Social Security benefit overpayment. The remaining balance of $2,172 was placed in his Public Guardian account to cover his placement. BB's Veteran's benefits are anticipated to start soon.
Public Guardian is not asking your board for additional General Fund to support BB's placement. It is anticipated that BB's remaining account balance will be sufficient to cover his placement until his Veteran's benefits begin.
Public Guardian continues to diligently and repeatedly contact all suitable facilities in the State of California that accept Medi-Cal to secure placement for BB. As previously reported, facilities are reluctant to accept BB's placement. Facilities can decline to accept our request to place him. Nearly all facilities do not have waiting lists and will not notify Public Guardian when a bed becomes available. The one facility which had placed BB on their waiting list removed him from the waiting list upon reviewing his application more closely. Public Guardian must continuously contact facilities to check on bed availability, and beds fill fast. Public Guardian contacts the list of facilities at least weekly.
BB's income will be used to pay for his private-pay placement until a Medi-Cal facility is found. Once Public Guardian secures a placement for BB that accepts Medi-Cal, we will work with County Administration and the Auditor to repay the $45,000 received from General Fund out of BB's future Social Security and Veteran's benefits. BB's income should be used to pay for his own care retroactively.
We thank your board for providing the funding necessary to meet the County's Public Guardian mandates to place BB in adequate care, ensuring he was not on the street posing a risk to himself or the public.
Recommended Action
Consideration of Update Regarding Public Guardian Conservatee "BB"
| Estimated Cost | $45,000 |
|---|---|
| Amount Budgeted | $45,000 |
| Additional Requested | $0 |
| Future Annual Cost | $0 |
Presentation Only.
Clerk’s notes: Social Services Director Rachel Dillman Parsons presented the item to the Board.
Chair Crandell asked if anyone present wished to speak. No one wished to speak and the public input portion of this item was closed.
8. Closed Session
8.1Public Employee Evaluations:
Special DIstricts Administrator
Closed Session Item
8.2Conference with Legal Counsel: Existing Litigation pursuant to Gov. Code sec. 54956.9 (d)(1) – FERC Proceeding No. P-77, Potter Valley Hydroelectric Project
Closed Session Item