There are currently two At-Large vacancies on the Great Redwood Trail Agency (GRTA) board of directors, and residents in Humboldt are invited to apply to serve. 

The GRTA is a public agency established in 2021 to develop and manage the Great Redwood Trail, a 307-mile, multi-use rail-to-trail project connect California’s San Franciso and Humboldt Bays. The agency also must discharge the duties of a rail common carrier before the Surface Transportation Board.

The GRTA’s service area is the former North Coast Railroad Authority rail corridor in Mendocino, Trinity and Humboldt Counties. The agency’s board of directors is composed of two people appointed by the boards of supervisors of the Counties of Humboldt, Marin, Mendocino and Sonoma. The vacancies reference here are the two Humboldt appointments.

The vacancies are at-large appointments, means members are appointed by the Board to serve all county districts, as opposed to one single district. At-large applicants may reside in any county district to be considered. The appointment is for a two-year term and the incumbent may be re-appointed. 

To be considered for a volunteer seat on the GTRA applicants may possess or obtain a basic understanding of trail and restoration projects and community development best practices. Community members with interest, knowledge or experience in these matters are especially encouraged to apply.

Application Process

Interested parties may contact the Clerk of the Board’s Office, located at 825 Fifth St., Room 111 in Eureka or via email.

This round of applications will be accepted until Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at 5 p.m. It is anticipated that applications will be presented to the Board for consideration on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. If you apply the Clerk of the Boards office will reach out to you with the information necessary to participate in the Board of Supervisors meeting. Applications for all county committees, boards and commissions with or without immediate vacancies are accepted year-round and are considered current for two years. Applicants on file will be notified should a new vacancy arise.

The GRTA meets typically every two months. Additional meetings and or special meetings may be scheduled throughout the year, as needed. The successful applicant will serve a two-year term and be appointed by a majority of the Board of Supervisors. The successful candidate will also be required to file a statement of economic interest as required by the Fair Political Practices Commission of the State of California and complete ethics training every two years.

For more information on county committees, boards and commissions, please call 707-476-2390 or email cob@co.humboldt.ca.us.

The Humboldt County Clerk of the Board’s Office and Planning & Building Department have recently received several reports of an email scam targeting the community. 

In this scam fraudulent emails claim to be from the Humboldt County Planning Commission. The scammer tells the victim that they have reviewed and approved their application to serve on the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee and an “application review and approval fee” is required before “official approval” can be finalized.

The email appears to mine information from publicly-accessible documents such as Board of Supervisors meeting agendas and related application documents. It also includes instructions on how to wire funds to pay the fee and settle the account.

The County of Humboldt does not charge or require an “application review and approval fee" for the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee or any other Humboldt County board, committee or commission and would like the community to know that this is a scam. 

While departments such as the Clerk of the Board and Planning & Building may contact you regarding your application to serve on a county board, committee or commission, the county will never ask you to pay a fee to serve or:

• Mail large sums of cash
• Wire funds to a private account
• Use a credit card over the phone, or
• Pay with gift cards or pre-paid money card

If you have any questions about the status of your application to serve on a county board, committee or commission, please call the Humboldt County Clerk of the Board’s Office at 707-476-2390.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone who believes they may have been targeted or have been a victim of this type of fraudulent activity to report the incident immediately by calling 707-445-7251.

Please remember these tips to help protect yourself from fraud:

• Spot imposters. Scammers often pretend to be someone you trust, like a government official, a family member, a charity or a company with which you do business. Do not send money or give out personal information in response to an unexpected request, whether it comes as a text, a phone call or an email. Do not open attachments in emails from unknown sources.
• Do online research. Type a company or product name into your favorite search engine with words like “review,” “complaint” or “scam.” Or search for a phrase that describes your situation, like “application fee” or “IRS call.” You can even search for phone numbers and email addresses to see if other people have reported them as scams.
• Don’t believe the name in an email or your caller ID. Technology makes it easy for scammers to fake email account names and caller ID information, so the name and number you see are not always real. If someone calls asking for money or personal information, hang up. If someone emails you asking for you to take action, do not click links in the email or open attachments. If you think the person contacting you might be telling the truth, call back to a number you know is genuine.
• Talk to someone. Before you give up your money or personal information, talk to someone you trust. Con artists want you to make decisions in a hurry. They might even threaten you. Slow down, check out the story, do an online search, consult an expert or just tell a friend. If you have applied to serve on a county board, committee or commission with the Clerk of the Board’s office, please contact them and ask questions.
• Do not rely on personal information. Living in the digital age, access to information is easier than ever. Scammers are often able to get their hands on very personal information, providing it to their victims to make their scam look more legitimate. Do not trust a scammer who is able to provide your personal information. If you followed the above tips and still are not sure, call back at a publicly listed number for the organization from which the scammer claims to be or contact your loved one directly.

Stay Informed

Sign up for the Federal Trade Commission’s scam alerts and visit USA.gov/Where-Report-Scams to learn how to report scams.

To learn more about some of the common scams reported to the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, please visit HumboldtGov.org/ScamInfo .

The Humboldt Bay Area Plan (HBAP) is undergoing a major update to reflect the significant changes that Humboldt County has experienced over the past 44 years, and the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department is seeking public input. 

Background

The HBAP was originally certified in 1982 and establishes policies on how approximately 21,500 acres of land in the unincorporated area around Humboldt Bay, and over 20 miles of Pacific coastline, can be used. Humboldt County has experienced many changes over the last 44 years and the HBAP has not been comprehensively updated since it was certified. 

The California Coastal Commission approved limited updates to the HBAP in March 2022, however, those changes were only related to the Samoa Peninsula Wastewater Project and did not include a comprehensive update to the broader plan. Now, additional changes are necessary to reflect current conditions, guidance and priorities. 

The updated plan will include policies to address sea level rise, informed by the best science available and most recent California Coastal Commission guidance. Tsunami safety planning policies in this plan will also be updated to reflect the most recent tsunami height predictions from the California Geological Survey and best practices from other coastal communities. Plan updates will also begin to address the needs of a heavy lift terminal on Humboldt Bay to support the offshore wind industry.

Public Meeting

A public meeting will be held via Zoom on Tuesday, Feb. 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. to share information on the plan update and gather community input. All interested community members are invited to attend. Feedback from the public will be reviewed and incorporated into the updated HBAP where appropriate.

How to Attend

Attendees can access the public meeting online via Zoom by entering the password: 187000. 

To access the meeting on the phone, call +1 213-204-8273, enter the meeting id:  822 9737 9393, and password: 187000.

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access to all county programs, services and activities through the provision of accommodations for individuals with qualified disabilities as required under the Americans with Disabilities Act.  With 72 hours prior notice, a request for reasonable accommodation for this meeting can be made by calling 707-268-3713.   

For more information, please email rmeighan@co.humboldt.ca.us or call 707-268-3713.

For more information about the Humboldt Bay Area Plan, please visit the county’s Local Coastal Plan Update web page.

About the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department

The County of Humboldt’s Planning & Building Department is dedicated to supporting safe and well-planned communities throughout Humboldt County. Whether you’re building a home, opening a business or planning for the future, the Planning & Building Department is here to guide you through the processes that help ensure development aligns with local values, environmental stewardship and state law. For more information about the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department and the services it provides, please visit HumboldtGov.org/Planning-Building.

The Humboldt County Planning & Building Department advises residents that there are potential health and life safety concerns arising from the current environmental events impacting some coastal homes.  

The combination of King Tides and heavy rainfall are causing flooding in the Humboldt Bay area. Many residences in Humboldt County built in the low elevation areas immediately adjacent to Humboldt Bay, its estuaries and the rivers and creeks, are currently experiencing flooding and water damage.

Flooding and Electric Shock Hazards  

Coastal flooding in the recent days has revealed the potential for electric shock hazards as floodwater has been entering inside some residences. 

The Planning & Building Department warns that flooding inside a home can reach electrical outlets, wiring and connections under the home, on floors, along interior and exterior walls as well as electrical connections on appliances such as water heaters. This creates a serious risk of electric shock, as electricity can travel freely through water without visible warning signs. 

Stay Vigilant

Here are some common things to look out for if flooding is affecting your home or you see water entering your home:

• Electrical power strips and other devices and appliances plugged into outlets or receptacles.
• Floor outlets, and outlets and other devices low to the ground against walls.
• Hard-wired appliances such as ovens, air conditioning and heating units.
• Gas appliances low to the ground or below grade.
• Any mechanical equipment or water heaters low to the ground or below grade.
• Any of the above in basements or sub-floor areas.

Safety Tips

If you have electrical fixtures that have encountered floodwater, please turn off the power source to either those outlets or to the entire home, and:

• Take the time to identify where electrical panels, commonly known as circuit breakers, are located around your home. These are often located at electrical main service panels and sub-panels inside and outside of the home. Circuit breakers can disconnect whole home electricity or smaller areas or specific appliances.
• Know how to disconnect your home’s appliances.
• If you suspect electrical hazards or other safety concerns, reach out to the appropriate service providers, such as electricians, plumbers, heating, ventilation and air conditioning mechanical professionals, etc. for assistance.
• Hazards created by flooding are not limited to electrical hazards as there is potential for other health and safety concerns such as gas leaks, sewage back up and water contamination. Identify the way to disconnect and shut off gas and water lines.  
• Structural materials such as subflooring, insulation and wall cavities may also be compromised even if damage is not immediately visible, and mold can begin to develop within 24 to 48 hours after flooding. 
• If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, dial 9-1-1.

The Humboldt County Planning & Building Department encourages you to share this information with members of your household and neighbors currently being affected by these environmental events.  

Report Damages

If you or your business were affected by recent flooding events, please report damages to the Humboldt County Office of Emergency Services (OES) by filling out the 2025/2026 Winter Flooding Damage Report Form. This form is meant to help Humboldt County OES assess the level of damage sustained by the community. Financial or other individual assistance is not coordinated or provided through this damage reporting process.

Stay Informed

Visit HumboldtGov.org/Emergency for the latest emergency updates from the Humboldt County Office of Emergency Services.

Sign Up for Humboldt Alert

Humboldt Alert is the county’s emergency notification system. Residents are encouraged to sign up for alerts at Humboldtgov.org/Alerts. For more preparedness tips and resources, please visit  Humboldtgov.org/Prepare

If you have interest in reviewing and acting on development projects, and in advising the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors on important land use decisions, consider applying to serve on Humboldt County’s Planning Commission.

The Planning Commission is established as the planning agency of the County of Humboldt. The commission has authority to approve or deny many types of development in Humboldt County and makes recommendations to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors on matters relating to land use policies and ordinances. 

There is currently one open vacancy on this commission. The vacancy is an at-large appointment, which means members are appointed by the Board to serve all county districts, as opposed to one single district. At-large applicants may reside in any county district to be considered. The appointment is for a two year term and the incumbent may be reappointed. 

To be considered for a volunteer seat on the Planning Commission, applicants may possess or obtain a basic understanding of land use regulations and community development best practices. Community members with interest, knowledge or experience in these matters are especially encouraged to apply.

Application Process

Applications are available on the county’s website or in person in the Clerk of the Board’s Office, located at 825 Fifth St., Room 111 in Eureka. Applications will be accepted via email, in person or by mail.

This round of applications will be accepted until Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026 at 5 p.m. It is anticipated that applications will be presented to the Board for consideration on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026. Applications for all county committees, boards and commissions with or without immediate vacancies are accepted year round and are considered current for two years. Applicants on file will be notified should a new vacancy arise.

The Humboldt County Planning Commission meets the first and third Thursday of each month. The successful applicant will serve a two-year term and be appointed by a majority of the Board of Supervisors. The successful candidate will also be required to file a statement of economic interest as required by the Fair Political Practices Commission of the State of California and complete ethics training every two years.

For more information on county committees, boards and commissions, please call 707-476-2390 or email cob@co.humboldt.ca.us.

On Tuesday, Dec. 9, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors approved an extension for Measure S tax payments for cannabis permit holders already enrolled in a payment plan. 

Those who have entered into a payment plan may pay their total cannabis tax bill, including 2025 taxes, in four equal payments over four years (2026-2029). Each payment must be 25% of the total amount due and must be paid by the end of each year, through 2029.

To remain eligible on a year-by-year basis, applicants and permit holders must stay current with this four-year payment plan. If a required 25% payment is not made by the end of any year, the applicant or permit holder will enter the permit suspension and revocation process.

Those who did not enter into a payment plan by the April 3, 2025 deadline do not qualify for the extended deadline. 

Background

The original March 31, 2024 deadline was set by the Board of Supervisors in October 2023 to address $18 million in unpaid Measure S taxes and $2.4 million in outstanding Planning & Building Department processing fees. Cannabis permit holders were required to pay processing and inspection fees and enroll in a payment plan for Measure S taxes by March 31, 2024. Those who complied were granted until March 31, 2025, to pay their balances, with noncompliance risking permit suspension or revocation.

On Tuesday, March 25, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors approved an extension for Measure S tax payments from March 31 to Dec. 31, for permit holders already enrolled in a payment plan. Those who had not yet enrolled in a payment plan were asked to so by April 3 to qualify for the extended deadline.

Those who did not enter into a payment plan by April 3 have until Dec. 31 to pay their past due Measure S taxes in full.

Under the Board’s current direction, the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department will begin revocation proceedings on after Jan. 1, 2026 for cannabis permit holders and applicants who owe Measure S taxes and have not entered into a payment plan with the county.

How to Pay Measure S Taxes and Cannabis Cultivation Permitting Fees

Humboldt County cannabis permit holders may pay their permit or application fees by calling 707-445-7541 or in person at the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department Office, located at 3015 H St. in Eureka. Payment plans are not available for permit or application fees.

To pay your Measure S taxes, call 707-476-2450 or visit the Humboldt County Treasurer Tax Collector’s Office, located at 825 Fifth St. in Room 125 in Eureka.

For more information, please contact the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department at 707-445-7541 or the Humboldt County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office at 707-476-2450.

The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing at a special meeting on Monday, Oct. 20 at 9 a.m. to consider an ordinance with zoning changes for the McKinleyville Town Center project.

The Board of Supervisors will also consider the draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) that looks at the possible environmental effects of future development in the town center area, including the Life Plan Humboldt project.

Background 

The Humboldt County General Plan and McKinleyville Community Plan outline a vision for the McKinleyville Town Center to be developed with a mix of commercial, civic and residential uses, public gathering spaces, open space and wetland preservation. Part of the vision is to create a vibrant area where people can live, work and gather, with easy access by walking, biking, driving or via public transit. 

To make this vision a reality, two amendments are being proposed to the existing zoning code:

• Rezone the entire McKinleyville Town Center site as “Mixed Use-Urban”, which allows a mix of residential, commercial and civic uses.
• Adopt a “Q-Zone” combining regulations that, among other guidance, would modify the proposed principal mixed use zoning regulations. 

The changes would allow development of a mix of commercial, service, retail as well as residential uses. The focus on the town center is to create space that is provides pedestrian and bicycle connections, small open spaces for public gathering and a 14-acre wetland reserve. 

Development of the new McKinleyville Town Center would happen gradually over time, with each new project going through a zoning conformance review process known as Zoning Clearance Certification.

Public Hearing

The Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing to discuss the proposed zoning changes, DEIR and receive public comment on Monday, Oct. 20 at 9 a.m. All interested parties are invited to attend in person in the Board of Supervisors’ Chamber in the Humboldt County Courthouse, located at 825 Fifth St. in Eureka, or on Zoom. Zoom information will be provided in the meeting agenda when it is published on the county’s meeting agenda web page.

Public comment can made during the meeting or sent by email to cob@co.humboldt.ca.us before the meeting. Community members who email a comment should include their name and the agenda item number. Comments sent after the meeting agenda is posted will be added to the administrative record following the meeting.

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access to all county programs, services and activities through the provision of accommodations for individuals with qualified disabilities as required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  With 72 hours prior notice, a request for reasonable accommodation for the public meeting can be made by calling 707-268-3732.   

For more information, please contact Humboldt County’s Planning & Building Director John Ford at 707-268-3738, email jford@co.humboldt.ca.us or visit the Planning & Building Department office, located at 3015 H St. in Eureka.

If you are interested in matters related to proposed signage in McKinleyville, you are encouraged to attend the Humboldt County Planning Commission’s upcoming meeting on Thursday, Sept. 4.

The Humboldt County Planning Commission will review a request for a conditional use permit to install 22 new signs, totaling 3,295 square feet, at the McKinleyville U-Haul property, commonly known as the former Kmart and Ray’s Food Place property, located at 1500 Anna Sparks Way in McKinleyville. 

The signage being proposed is available for public review on the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department’s major projects web page.

Share Your Input

The Humboldt County Planning Commission invites and encourages the public to provide input on the proposed signage. 

The proposal will be reviewed at the planning commission’s regular meeting on Thursday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m. All interested members of the public are invited to attend and provide comments on the proposed signage. The meeting will be held in the Board of Supervisors Chamber, located in the Humboldt County Courthouse at 825 Fifth St. in Eureka. Community members may also attend the meeting on Zoom or watch a live stream of the meeting on the county’s meeting agenda web page or by watching Access Humboldt on cable Channel 11. Zoom information will be provided in the meeting agenda.

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access to all county programs, services and activities through the provision of accommodations for individuals with qualified disabilities as required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  With 72 hours prior notice, a request for reasonable accommodation for this meeting can be made by calling 707-268-3722.   

For more information, or if you have questions or comments regarding the proposed signage, please contact Associate Planner Alice Vasterling at 707-268-3777 or email  avasterling@co.humboldt.ca.us. 

If you are interested in the McKinleyville Town Center Ordinance, you are encouraged to attend the Humboldt County Planning Commission’s upcoming workshop.

The planning commission will begin its review of the McKinleyville Town Center Ordinance with a public workshop on Thursday, Aug. 21. At the workshop, commissioners will hear a report on the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee’s (MMAC) work in developing the ordinance and will review both the ordinance and the environmental impact report prepared for the ordinance.

Background

The Humboldt County General Plan and McKinleyville Community Plan envision a town center with a mix of commercial, civic and residential uses, along with public gathering areas, open space and wetland preservation. Part of the vision is to create a vibrant area where people can live, work and gather, with easy access by walking, biking, driving or via public transit. Development of the new McKinleyville town center would happen gradually over time, with each new project going through a zoning conformance review process known as zoning clearance certification.

The MMAC has held public discussions on the McKinleyville Town Center Ordinance since 2019 and is close to making its final recommendation. The upcoming workshop will take place before that recommendation, providing the planning commission an opportunity to review the work that has gone into the ordinance preparation and proposed regulations.

Share Your Input

All interested members of the public are invited to attend the McKinleyville Town Center Ordinance Workshop and provide comments on the draft of the ordinance as it currently exists. The workshop will be held in the Board of Supervisors Chamber, located in the Humboldt County Courthouse at 825 Fifth St. in Eureka. The workshop will take place shortly after 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21. Members of the public may also attend the meeting on Zoom or watch a live stream of the meeting on the county’s meeting agenda web page or by watching Access Humboldt on cable Channel 11. Zoom information will be provided in the meeting agenda.

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access to all county programs, services and activities through the provision of accommodations for individuals with qualified disabilities as required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). With 72 hours prior notice, a request for reasonable accommodation for this workshop can be made by calling 707-268-3722.   

For more information, or if you have questions or comments regarding the McKinleyville Town Center Ordinance, please contact Humboldt County Planning & Building Director John Ford at 707-268-3738 or email jford@co.humboldt.ca.us.

The County of Humboldt’s Planning & Building Department is excited to announce the availability of low interest loans for eligible homeowners through its Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation and Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Loan Programs. 

These programs are designed to help unincorporated Humboldt County residents with low income invest in their homes, improve living conditions and create new rental opportunities, all with no required loan payments for 30 years.

Whether homeowners are seeking to make essential repairs, improve safety and accessibility, or construct an accessory dwelling unit such as a backyard cottage or converted garage to generate additional income, these programs can help make those goals achievable. 

Funds may be used for a wide range of improvements, including roof and heating system repairs or the construction of a long-term rental unit on the property.

The Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation and ADU Loan Programs are available to qualifying homeowners with low-income who live in their own homes in unincorporated areas of Humboldt County.

Funding is limited, and demand is expected to be high. Interested homeowners are encouraged to contact the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department to be placed on the waiting list for these programs as soon as possible.

Please visit the county’s Housing and Grants web page for more information or call 707-267-9402 to find out if you qualify and begin the application process. For assistance in Spanish, please call 707-268-3725.

###

El Condado de Humboldt Ofrece Préstamos de Bajo Interés a Dueños de Casas que Califiquen para Ayudar en Reparar Casas o Construir ADUs (AVAs en esp)

El Departamiento de Planificación y Construcción del Condado de Humboldt está entusiasmado anunciar la disponibilidad de préstamos de bajo interés para dueños de casas eligibles por sus Programas de Préstamos de Rehabilitación Dueño Ocupado y Apartamento de Vivienda Accesorios (AVA).

Estos programas se diseñan a ayudar residentes de Condado Humboldt no incorporados con bajos ingresos para inversionar en sus casas, mejorar a las condiciones de vida y crear nuevas oportunidades de alquiler, todo sin pagos mandatorios hasta pase 30 años.

Si dueños de casas estén buscando hacer arreglos esenciales, mejorar a la seguridad y accesibilidad, o construir un apartamento de vivienda accesorio tal como una casa de patio trasero o garaje convertido para generar ingresos adicionales, estos programas pueden facilitar esas metas alcanzables.

Fondos pueden ser utilizados para un surtido amplio de mejoramientos, incluyendo reparaciones al techo y sistemas de calefacción o la construcción de una unidad de alquiler de largo plazo en la propiedad.

Los Programas de Préstamo de Rehabilitación Dueño Ocupado y AVA son disponibles a dueños de casas calificando, con bajos ingresos que vivan en sus propias casas dentro de áreas no incorporadas del Condado de Humboldt.

Los fondos son limitados, y se espera que la exigencia sea alta. Dueños de casas interesados se animan a contactar el Departamiento de Planificación y Construcción del Condado de Humboldt para ponerse en la lista de esperanza para estos programas lo antes posible.

Por favor visite al Housing and Grants web page del Condado para más información o llame a 707-267-9402 para saber si Ud. califique y comenzar el proceso de aplicación. Para asistencia en español, por favor llame a 707-268-3725.

The County of Humboldt’s Planning & Building Department has released the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) for the proposed McKinleyville Town Center Zoning Amendment.

This report examines how the proposed zoning changes could affect the local environment. Community members are encouraged to review the DEIR and provide feedback during the public comment period.

Background 

The Humboldt County General Plan and McKinleyville Community Plan outline a vision for the McKinleyville Town Center to be developed with a mix of commercial, civic and residential uses, public gathering spaces, open space and wetland preservation. Part of the vision is to create a vibrant area where people can live, work and gather, with easy access by walking, biking, driving or via public transit. 

To make this vision a reality, the county is proposing two amendments to the existing zoning code:

•  Rezone the entire McKinleyville Town Center site as Mixed Use-Urban (MU1), which allows a mix of residential, commercial and civic uses.
•  Adopt “Q-Zone” combining regulations that, among other guidance, would modify the proposed principal Mixed Use zoning regulations. 

In addition, the county is proposing a change to the McKinleyville Community Plan to incorporate the General Plan adopted definition of a wetland as three parameters, rather than the current single parameter definition.

These changes would support future development that could include up to 2,650 multi-family housing units, 632,800 square feet of retail/commercial space and up to 271,200 square feet of office space.

Development of the new McKinleyville Town Center would happen gradually over time, with each new project going through a zoning conformance review process known as Zoning Clearance Certification.

Share Your Input

The DEIR for the McKinleyville Town Center Zoning Amendment has been released for its public review period. The DEIR can be found at the county’s McKinleyville Town Center Master Plan web page. The public review period will run for 45-days, from Friday, April 11 to Tuesday, May 27. 

All interested community members are encouraged to review the document and share their input. This is an important opportunity for Humboldt County residents to help shape the future of McKinleyville.

Written comments on the DEIR will be accepted by email to ceqaresponses@humboldt.ca.us or by mail to Attn: Long Range Planning Division, Planning & Building Department, 3015 H St., Eureka CA, 95501. In order to assist each local jurisdiction, please include whether you reside in unincorporated Humboldt County or within an incorporated city.

Public Meeting

The county will hold a public meeting to discuss the DEIR and receive comments from the public. All interested parties are invited to attend. The meeting will include a brief presentation of the results of the DEIR and will provide attendees with an opportunity to provide public comments on the draft report.

The public meeting to discuss the DEIR will be held during the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee (MMAC) meeting on Wednesday, April 23 at 6 p.m. Community members may attend in person at Azalea Hall, located at 1620 Pickett Rd. in McKinleyville or on Zoom.

Attend on Zoom

Join the meeting by visiting Zoom and entering meeting ID 844 4994 7337 and passcode 043757. To access the meeting by phone, please call 1-669-900-6833 and enter phone conference ID 844 4994 7337#.

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access to all county programs, services and activities through the provision of accommodations for individuals with qualified disabilities as required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  With 72 hours prior notice, a request for reasonable accommodation for the public meeting can be made by calling 707-268-3732.   

For more information, please contact Humboldt County’s Planning & Building Director John Ford at 707-268-3738, email jford@co.humboldt.ca.us or visit the Planning & Building Department office, located at 3015 H St. in Eureka.

A map depicting the proposed McKinleyville Town Center area. Map courtesy of the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department.

The deadline to pay Measure S taxes has been extended, providing additional time for those in the local cannabis community to meet their tax obligations.

On Tuesday, March 25, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors approved an extension for Measure S tax payments from March 31 to Dec. 31, 2025 for permit holders already enrolled in a payment plan. Those who have not yet enrolled in a payment plan must do so by April 3 to qualify for the extended deadline.

The original March 31 deadline was set by the Board of Supervisors in October 2023 to address $18 million in unpaid Measure S taxes and $2.4 million in outstanding processing fees. Cannabis permit holders were required to pay processing and inspection fees by March 31, 2024, and enroll in a payment plan for Measure S taxes. Those who complied were granted until March 31, 2025, to pay their balances, with noncompliance risking permit suspension or revocation.

Under the Board’s new decision, the final deadline to pay Measure S taxes is now Dec. 31, 2025, with no further extensions.

Currently, about 76% of permit holders are up to date on their Measure S taxes.

How to Pay Measure S Fees and Taxes

Humboldt County cannabis permit holders may pay their permit or application fees by calling 707-445-7541 or in person at the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department Office, located at 3015 H St. in Eureka. Payment plans are not available for permit or application fees.

To pay your Measure S taxes or discuss payment plan arrangements, call 707-476-2450 or visit the Humboldt County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office, located at 825 Fifth St. in Room 125 in Eureka.

For more information, please contact the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department at 707-445-7541 or the Humboldt County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office at 707-476-2450.

The Humboldt County Planning & Building Department is developing an ordinance to establish outdoor lighting design guidelines aimed at reducing light pollution and preserving the night sky in unincorporated areas of Humboldt County. 

Background

The Planning & Building Department has been developing a draft Outdoor Lighting Ordinance to address community concerns, complaints and implementation measures in the county’s 2017 Conservation and Open Space Elements of the General Plan, specifically Scenic Resources Implementation Measure 5 - Lighting Design Guidelines. 

Lighting Ordinance Workshop 

If you would like to be part of the discussion on this ordinance, please consider attending the Humboldt County Planning Commission's workshop on this topic during their regular meeting on Thursday, March 20. 

Community members have the option to attend on Zoom or in person at the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors’ Chamber, located at 825 Fifth St. in Eureka. The Planning Commission meeting will start at 6 p.m. and the agenda, which includes the written staff report, can be found on the county’s meeting agenda web page.

Following the workshop, staff will update the ordinance based on feedback received at the workshop. The ordinance will then enter the hearing stage where the Planning Commission will make their recommendations to the Board of Supervisors, who will consider those recommendations and make a decision regarding the proposed ordinance.

How to Attend on Zoom

Members of the public may attend the Planning Commission meeting on Zoom by visiting zoom.us/j/87544807065 and entering the password 200525. To access on the phone, call 346-248-7799, enter the meeting ID: 875 4480 7065 and password: 200525.

A live stream of the meeting can also be found on the county’s meeting agenda web page or by watching Access Humboldt on cable Channel 11.

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access to all county programs, services and activities through the provision of accommodations for individuals with qualified disabilities as required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  With 72 hours prior notice, a request for reasonable accommodation for this workshop can be made by calling 707-268-3722.   

For more information, please contact Reanne Meighan, Associate Planner, at rmeighan@co.humboldt.ca.us or call 707-268-3713.

A crucial deadline is approaching for Humboldt County cannabis permit holders. Monday, March 31 marks the final date for cannabis farmers to fulfill their Measure S tax obligations under payment agreements made with Humboldt County’s Treasurer-Tax Collector.

Humboldt County offices will be closed to the public on Monday, March 31, in observance of César Chávez Day. As a result, the deadline for farmers to fulfill their Measure S tax obligations has been extended to Tuesday, April 1.

This deadline stems from a decision made by the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors in October 2023 in response to outstanding debts of $18 million in unpaid Measure S taxes and $2.4 million in unpaid processing fees.

Under the Board’s direction, cannabis permit holders were required to pay processing and inspection fees by March 31, 2024, and enter into a payment plan for Measure S taxes. Those who complied were given until March 31, 2025, to fully settle their Measure S balances. Under the Board’s direction, permit holders who fail to meet this deadline risk permit suspension and possible revocation.

Currently, about two-thirds of permit holders are up to date on their Measure S taxes. Approximately 415 permit holders have entered into payment plans, with 378 still owing approximately $5.1 million. An additional 222 permit holders did not enter into a payment plan and collectively owe approximately $3.7 million.

Measure S Tax Enforcement to be Discussed at Upcoming Board of Supervisors Meeting

Understanding that the local cannabis community has ongoing concerns regarding Measure S tax enforcement, on Tuesday, March 25, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors will discuss whether to maintain their existing direction or consider alternative solutions, particularly for those permit holders who have made efforts to meet their tax obligations.

The Board of Supervisors meeting agenda, with information on how to attend the meeting, will be available on the county’s website on Friday, March 21 when it is finalized. All interested community members are encouraged to attend in person at the Board of Supervisors’ Chamber in the Humboldt County Courthouse, 825 Fifth St. in Eureka, join the meeting on Zoom or watch the livestream at humboldt.legistar.com.

How to Pay Measure S Fees and Taxes

Humboldt County cannabis permit holders may pay their permit or application fees by calling 707-445-7541 or in person at the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department Office, located at 3015 H St. in Eureka. Payment plans are not available for permit or application fees.

To pay your Measure S taxes or discuss payment plan arrangements, call 707-476-2450 or visit the Humboldt County Treasurer Tax Collector’s Office, located at 825 Fifth St. in Room 125 in Eureka.

For more information, please contact the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department at 707-445-7541 or the Humboldt County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office at 707-476-2450.

Governor Gavin Newsom today issued proposed emergency regulations to protect youth from the adverse health effects of dangerous hemp products. The products contain intoxicating levels of THC and do not go through the highly regulated cannabis environment, and are sold across the state, especially beverages and food products. Humboldt County officials today supported these regulations and look forward to working with the legislature, stakeholders and the Governor on a more permanent solution.

Rex Bohn, Humboldt County First District Supervisor:

“Hemp was never meant to intoxicate. That is why the state went through years and years of hard work, thousands of hours and meetings with every agency and stakeholder under the sun to develop a thorough program to regulate the intoxicating nature of THC through cannabis. Allowing companies to bring in intoxicating hemp products across state lines, and potentially internationally, flies in the face of everything we have done in Humboldt and throughout California to get this right. The emergency regulations announced today are a good first step towards a more comprehensive solution.”

Michelle Bushnell, Humboldt County Second District Supervisor:

“I appreciate the Governor taking action today to stop the madness. Our cannabis cultivators and everybody involved in the supply chain have to satisfy so many regulations, to protect the public health, environmental impacts, and they do it at incredibly significant costs. Humboldt County has worked very hard for years to make sure THC and cannabis is brought to market in a way that is acceptable to the people of Humboldt and California. We cannot allow hemp to simply skirt the rules for financial gain.”

Sofia Pereira, Humboldt County Department of Health & Human Services Public Health Director:

"Humboldt County Public Health stands with the Governor in protecting youth from intoxicating hemp products."

Ross Gordon, Humboldt County Growers Alliance Policy Director, Origins Council Policy Chair

"From seed to sale, the lack of parity in regulation between hemp and cannabis has become completely untenable. While only the federal legalization of cannabis can truly solve these problems, we applaud the Governor for taking a meaningful step forward to close intoxicating hemp loopholes and move towards a more rational cannabis policy."

While the regulations take effect upon approval of the Office of Administrative Law, the state legislature would need to develop law to deal with this issue long-term.

To that end, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors on Aug. 13 issued a letter opposing unless amended a bill that would have created a parity issue for state-licensed cannabis farmers by allowing incorporation of high-THC hemp products and cannabinoids into the licensed supply chain. The letter states "The sales of high-THC hemp products at licensed cannabis dispensaries sourced from anywhere in the U.S. when significant regulatory discrepancies exist between hemp and cannabis cultivation places thousands of small California businesses (cannabis farmers) and particularly those in Humboldt County at a competitive advantage. The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors recognizes the need to address hemp, but this must be accomplished in a manner that respects the regulatory system put in place for cannabis cultivation."

The draft Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan was published for public review on Aug. 14, 2024.

The plan, available at humboldtgov.org/climateactionplan, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across Humboldt County by addressing emissions from vehicle travel, electricity use, natural gas consumption and other local sources. It outlines 29 measures related to carbon-free energy, building energy use, transportation, waste, water/wastewater and carbon sequestration. The plan’s emissions reduction goals align with California's state targets of reducing emissions by 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2045. 

The next step on the pathway to finalizing this plan is to prepare an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) that assesses the plan's potential environmental outcomes.

On Friday, Aug. 30, the County of Humboldt’s Planning & Building Department filed a Notice of Preparation for the Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan Environmental Impact Report (EIR). This initiates an additional 30-day public review period which runs from Friday, Aug. 30 through Monday, Sept. 30. 

Provide Feedback on Environmental Impacts of the Plan

The county invites all interested parties to review the Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan and provide written comments about specific concerns related to the plan’s potential environmental impacts. Written comments should identify specific topics of environmental concern and your reason for suggesting the study of these topics in the EIR. Comments should include your name and address and will be accepted by email at macevedo@co.humboldt.ca.us or mailed to: County of Humboldt, Attn: Megan Acevedo -  Long Range Planning Division, Planning & Building Department, 3015 H St., Eureka, CA 95501.

For more information and background on the Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan and how to submit public comment, please visit humboldtgov.org/climateactionplan.

Public Scoping Meeting

The Humboldt County Planning & Building Department will host a public scoping meeting to take public comment from interested parties on the scope and content of the EIR. All community members are invited to attend to assist in identifying issues to be addressed in the EIR. The scoping meeting will be held in person on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 3:30 p.m. at the Humboldt County Agricultural Center, located at 5630 S. Broadway in Eureka. 

How to Attend on Zoom

Members of the public unable to attend the public scoping meeting in person may attend on Zoom. Access the meeting by visiting Zoom and entering passcode 356621. To access the meeting on the phone, please call 669-900-6833 and enter the webinar id: 844-4277-1552.

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access to all county programs, services and activities through the provision of accommodations for individuals with qualified disabilities as required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). With 72 hours prior notice, a request for reasonable accommodation for the public meeting can be made by calling 707-268-3722.   

For more information, please call 707-441-2634, email macevedo@co.humboldt.ca.us, or visit the Planning & Building Department office located at 3015 H St. in Eureka.

We know that Humboldt County has some of the worst roads in the state. This is partially because other counties, like Los Angeles and San Francisco, have passed transportation measures that give them access to billions in state and federal dollars that the County of Humboldt currently cannot afford to access because the county does not have the matching funds.

On Tuesday, July 23 the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors voted 5-0 to place Humboldt County’s Roads/911 Emergency Response Measure on your November 5, 2024 ballot. If passed, the measure would provide $24 million in local funding, that cannot be taken or cut by the state, that would allow the county to bring in additional millions in outside funding each year for roads and bus service for seniors, disabled and low-income people.

Make your voice heard on local climate initiatives at the Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan public meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 10. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. at the Wharfinger Building, located at 1 Marina Way in Eureka.

Background

The County of Humboldt is working with incorporated cities and community partners, including the Humboldt Waste Management Authority, Humboldt Transit Authority, Humboldt County Association of Governments and Redwood Coast Energy Authority, on the Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions countywide. The plan identifies strategies to lower emissions from vehicle travel, electricity use, natural gas consumption and other local sources of greenhouse gases. The plan’s emissions reduction goals align with California's state targets of reducing emissions by 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2045.

The County of Humboldt’s Planning & Building Department has released the latest draft of the Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan for its 30-day public review period, which ends on Friday, Sept. 13. Review the plan at humboldtgov.org/climateactionplan. 

Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan Public Meeting

A public meeting to discuss the plan with the community will occur on Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 6 p.m. at the Wharfinger Building, located at 1 Marina Way in Eureka. All interested community members are encouraged to review the document and share their input. 

For more information and background on the Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan and how to submit public comment, please visit humboldtgov.org/climateactionplan.

How to Attend on Microsoft Teams

Members of the public may attend the public meeting on Microsoft Teams by visiting Microsoft Teams and entering the passcode X5dQYx. To access on the phone, please call 949-508-0813, and enter the meeting id: 140 136 751 #.

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access to all county programs, services and activities through the provision of accommodations for individuals with qualified disabilities as required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). With 72 hours prior notice, a request for reasonable accommodation for the public meeting can be made by calling 707-268-3722.   

For more information, please call 707-441-2634, email macevedo@co.humboldt.ca.us, or visit the Planning & Building Department office located at 3015 H St. in Eureka.

If you are interested in sharing input on local climate initiatives, please consider reviewing the Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan and contributing your thoughts on the plan.

The County of Humboldt is collaborating with incorporated cities and community partners, including the Humboldt Waste Management Authority, Humboldt Transit Authority, Humboldt County Association of Governments and Redwood Coast Energy Authority, to release an updated draft of the climate action plan.

The purpose of the plan is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions throughout Humboldt County. The plan examines strategies focused on reducing emissions from vehicle travel, electricity use, natural gas consumption and other sources of greenhouse gases at the local level.

Review the Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan and Share Your Input

The County of Humboldt’s Planning & Building Department has released the Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan for its 30-day public review period. The plan can be found at humboldtgov.org/climateactionplan. The public review period will run from Wednesday, Aug. 14 to Friday, Sept. 13. All interested community members are encouraged to review the document and share their input. 

Written comments on the plan will be accepted by email to planningclerk@humboldt.ca.us or by mail to: Attn: Long Range Planning Division, Planning & Building Department, 3015 H St., Eureka, CA 95521, or shared with staff by calling 707-441-2634. Please indicate whether you reside in unincorporated Humboldt County or in an incorporated city so your feedback may also be shared with the jurisdiction you live in.

A public meeting to discuss the plan with the community will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 6 p.m. at the Wharfinger Building, located at 1 Marina Way in Eureka.

For more information and background on the Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan, please visit humboldtgov.org/climateactionplan.

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access to all county programs, services and activities through the provision of accommodations for individuals with qualified disabilities as required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). With 72 hours prior notice, a request for reasonable accommodation for the public meeting can be made by calling 707-268-3722.   

For more information, please call 707-441-2634, email macevedo@co.humboldt.ca.us, or visit the Planning & Building Department office, located at 3015 H St. in Eureka.

Beginning Wednesday, July 5, the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department will require permit application packages to be submitted digitally. 

This new requirement aims to streamline the permit application process for staff and support applicants by reducing travel, in person waiting time, and costs to produce paper plans. 

Building related permit application submissions will be accepted via email at buildinginspections@co.humboldt.ca.us and planning related submissions will be accepted at planningbuilding@co.humboldt.ca.us. 

Once applications are received, permit status can be accessed via the county’s existing online permit management system known as the Accela Citizen Access Customer Portal. To learn more on how to use Accela and find support resources, please visit the county’s Online Permit Management web page.

Community members who are unable to submit a digital application should email buildinginspections@co.humboldt.ca.us or planningbuilding@co.humboldt.ca.us or call (707) 445-7245 for assistance.

Humboldt County Planning & Building Department staff will continue to assess the digital permit application submission process and make improvements based on staff and community feedback.

For more information on the Humboldt County Planning & Building Department, please visit the Planning & Building Department web page.