This past month has been a whirlwind...  We have had good news, controversy, loss of friends and family, individual challenges, and great concerts from Murphys and Arnold to Camp Connell.

General Plan

After 13 years, several Boards of Supervisors and Planning Commissioners, the Board gave tentative approval for the General Plan.  Staff is preparing a resolution for final approval.  Michelle Plotnik, District 3 Planning Commissioner, and I discussed the community plan component.  The District 3 plans were rescinded as part of the General Plan.  It was a difficult vote for both of us to support a General Plan that did not include community plans for the Highway 4 corridor.  Key policy provisions of the community plans were included in the new General Plan.

I am committed to seeing that our community plans are updated and included in the General Plan.

Cannabis 

At the August 13 meeting, we discussed the requirements for background checks for potential commercial Cannabis cultivators.  After discussing several components of this item, a working group has been established.  The committee includes two Supervisors, Ben Stopper and Dennis Mills; Sheriff Dibasilio; Al Alt, CAO; and staff as needed.  The item will come back to the Board for final approval.

Homeowners Insurance

Almost daily, I get calls, emails, and comments at events from people about being non-renewed for their homeowner’s insurance policy.  Supervisors from several counties have met with Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, as has Supervisor Jack Garamendi, Al Alt, and Amador representatives...  I submitted questions that were not answered when Mr. Lara visited Calaveras.  Based on meetings with multiple counties, Mr. Lara has shifted his position and realizes that policies must be in place to assist the homeowners.  Staff is working to bring Commissioner Lara to Calaveras so he can hear directly from you.

Old Jail

For those of you who have seen the old jail, it is going to be demolished.  I do not have a date yet.  It is at the top of the list of projects at Government Center.

Auditor

Rebecca Callen announced her resignation effective September 1.  The Board has the responsibility to appoint the replacement.  We can either appoint someone or open it to qualified applicants; interviews must be public as this is an elected position.   

Murphys Drive

Yes, it is scheduled for completion this year.  On August 13, we voted to approve the agreement for construction with K. W. Emerson, a local contractor.

Trees on Main Street – Community Meeting 🌳

Wednesday, September 4

6 p.m.

Old School House

There was a tree health assessment of the 93 trees on Main Street in Murphys.  Based on the arborist's recommendation, 23 need to be removed, 22 require maintenance, and 48 need to be monitored.  Knowing that this is a controversial issue, I am collaborating with the Murphys Business Association on a community meeting, to discuss the assessment and future plans.