Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Mendocino County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues in development
Residential Permit Amnesty Program Considered
Residents packed the room to say the county's permit process is too costly and confusing, and that unpermitted housing is widespread. Only 12 of 38 housing applications from the last amnesty program got through to final inspection. The Board is now digging into why people couldn't finish, before deciding whether a new amnesty program makes sense.
ADU amnesty program for unpermitted units
The state's AB 2533 lets owners of pre-2020 unpermitted ADUs legalize them. The Board formed a committee to explore going beyond the state program locally, with a proposal due October 20.
Homelessness services and federal policy direction
The county is relaunching homeless outreach as a behavioral-health-focused program with two teams working seven days a week, six new positions, and $230,000 annually in Measure B funds, starting in the greater Ukiah area before expanding. Supervisors and staff framed it as filling the gap for unsheltered residents with mental health and substance use needs.
Planning and Building Services Leadership Transition
Director Julia Krog announced she's leaving July 17 for a Marin County job; Richard Wegele will serve as interim director with a supporting team, and the CEO is exploring a broader community services department reorganization.