Blue Lake Commission Tackles Battery Project, Cannabis Ordinance, and Future Vision

The Blue Lake Economic Development Commission held a meeting in February (exact date unspecified) to discuss several key issues impacting the community. The meeting, lasting approximately 58 minutes and attended by four commissioners and the city clerk/recorder, covered a range of topics, from a significant battery storage project to future development plans.

Battery Storage Project Dominates Discussion

A substantial portion of the meeting focused on a battery storage system project. The commission discussed a proposal to reduce the project's footprint from six to two acres, with the remaining four acres potentially leased or sold. An appraiser has been hired to determine the value of the reduced acreage. The estimated cleanup cost for the site is $500,000. An ad hoc committee, including Kelly, Cindy, David Glenn, and Kit Mann, was formed to address the project's complexities.

Addressing public concerns, a town hall meeting will be held to further discuss the project, although the date and time remain unannounced. A tour of the McKinleyville microgrid and Bess is scheduled for either Saturday, the 20th, or Sunday, the 23rd.

Public Comments and Concerns

Kent, a member of the public, expressed concerns about rumors circulating on Facebook regarding his alleged involvement in initiating the battery storage project. He denied any involvement, stating his goal was to help Blue Lake businesses comply with regulations. He also emphasized the importance of the city's responsiveness to business owner concerns and suggested repurposing the Emporium building for residential use.

Other Key Agenda Items

Beyond the battery project, the commission approved the minutes from the January 14th meeting (with a minor correction) and unanimously approved the agenda for the February meeting. Discussion also included:

* **Retail Cannabis Ordinance:** The commission engaged in discussions regarding the retail cannabis ordinance.

* **Business Updates:** The commission received an update on new businesses in Blue Lake, with one business poised to open soon.

* **Powers Creek District Visioning:** The commission explored visioning plans and projects related to the Powers Creek District, including an RV park and campground, and committed to seeking additional resources to aid the process. A Dutch auction is planned for April at Crash Hall.

Next Steps and Citizen Involvement

The ad hoc committee will continue evaluating the battery storage project, providing updates to the commission. The commission will continue to work on the Powers Creek District visioning plan. Further details on the town hall meeting regarding the battery storage project will be announced at a later date. For more information, please refer to the official meeting minutes available on the city of Blue Lake website: [https://bluelake.ca.gov/city-council/council-commissions/economic-development-commission/](https://bluelake.ca.gov/city-council/council-commissions/economic-development-commission/).