Blue Lake Weighs Cannabis Ordinance, Explores Economic Development
The Blue Lake Planning Commission held a meeting (date unspecified, video from August 12, 2025) to address several key issues impacting the community. The approximately 58-minute meeting, attended by four commissioners (a fifth joining later) and a city staff member, covered a wide array of topics, from approving minutes and discussing city projects to debating a controversial retail cannabis ordinance and strategizing for business outreach.
One of the most discussed items was a proposed retail cannabis ordinance. Lori, a community member, expressed opposition due to the ordinance's potential proximity to schools and other community spaces, stating a preference for "more wholesome activities." Jean echoed similar concerns, emphasizing the importance of community input before a decision is made. Following public comment, the commission decided to postpone a decision on the ordinance to gather more public input at a future meeting.
The commission also dedicated time to economic development. Marni presented three potential business opportunities: a campground, a sports store, and an arts and crafts retail center, all with an "old-fashioned" theme. Kent, another resident, raised concerns about the bike park's location near a street, suggesting its use for parking and camping. He also highlighted the need for improved communication and collaboration with the community to prevent the decline of the city center should businesses relocate to Taylor Way. To boost business outreach, a commissioner volunteered to develop a questionnaire to gather input from local businesses, and collaboration with the local Chamber of Commerce was discussed.
Updates on various city projects were also shared, and Emily from Parks and Recreation gave an update on the events schedule, including an upcoming adult skate night on October 30th and a future community visioning session at the Blue Lake Rancheria (date to be determined). The commission also noted the release of California Tourism Board regional tourism plans, available on the Visit California website.
In other business, the commission unanimously approved both the meeting agenda and the minutes from the April 8, 2025 meeting. The commission will revisit the retail cannabis ordinance and business outreach at a future meeting. They will also hold a community visioning session at the Blue Lake Rancheria and attend a SafeTrack workshop at the Blue Lake Rancheria on August 19th. A questionnaire will be distributed to local businesses to gather input for business outreach efforts. The commission will also meet with staff to discuss city projects.
For those interested in getting involved, details on future meetings and opportunities for public comment will be announced on the City of Blue Lake website: https://bluelake.ca.gov/city-council/council-commissions/economic-development-commission/