Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Benito County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues in zoning
Data center ordinance ahead
Commissioner Gibson wants the county to start writing a data center ordinance now so it isn't rushed like the battery storage rules. Staff says the topic could reach the Board and Commission before the end of the year.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) ordinance
The county is writing new zoning rules for large-scale battery storage facilities — the kind involved in the January 2025 Moss Landing fire. The draft sets standards on water supply for firefighting, setbacks, fencing, battery chemistry, and permits, but the Commission wants it toughened before recommending it to the Supervisors.
Proposed hemp cultivation ban
Supervisor Sotelo wants hemp banned in the county, arguing it conflicts with cannabis grows through cross-pollination and has mainly attracted rule-breakers. The Ag Commissioner agreed the program has been a time sink, and the Board will take it up with the code amendments.
Wireless telecommunications code standards
The commission's January denial of a 100-foot cell tower near downtown Hollister is being reexamined because the new county counsel doubts the legal findings will survive an appeal — and the applicant has already appealed. A fresh vote is set for March 18.
Williamson Act cannabis cultivation compatible uses
Supervisors paused three cannabis compatible-use requests after Curro questioned whether approvals could conflict with the county's cannabis exclusion zones; County Counsel recommended continuing to June 23.
Title 25 zoning code overhaul
The county's big Title 25 rewrite moves forward to the Board, but the kennel rules were pulled after local kennel operators said they were far too strict. Off-site wine tasting rooms got easier, and the two-year reapply-after-denial rule was narrowed to housing.
Short-term rentals allowed on Williamson Act land
Joe Tonascia pushed back on banning short-term rentals on Williamson Act parcels, calling it nonsensical for working farms with extra houses. The commission agreed and struck the exclusion, allowing short-term rentals in residential, commercial, and agricultural districts.
Tres Pinos garage appeal and fire sprinkler standoff
A 2,400-square-foot metal building went up in Tres Pinos' residential zone before anyone realized it needed a use permit. The bigger fight: its sprinklers can't connect because the Tres Pinos Water District won't allow a new connection under its moratorium. The county says the Water District owns the liability; the appellant says the whole thing is a safety hazard being papered over.
Kennels and pet shops near farmland — CUP trigger at 2,500 feet
Staff met with stakeholders after the last meeting's kennel ordinance discussion and are revising potential amendments based on the feedback received.