Eureka Planning Commission Greenlights Security Fence, Hydrogen Fueling Station

The Eureka Planning Commission approved two key projects at its September 10th meeting, addressing both local business needs and the county's transition towards cleaner energy. The meeting, which included both in-person and virtual attendees, focused on a security fence for Jack's Seafood and a new hydrogen fueling station for the Humboldt Transit Authority (HTA).

Jack's Seafood Security Upgrade Approved with Conditions

Jack's Seafood received approval for a seven-foot-tall wrought-iron fence with matching gates along 4 C Street. The project, requiring a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) and Design Review, aims to enhance security while minimizing disruption to public access. One resident voiced concern about the fence's visual impact, suggesting it might not fit the area's aesthetic. However, the commission approved the project, contingent on conditions ensuring the fence's removability, maintaining public access, and implementing best management practices (BMPs) to mitigate environmental effects during construction. The decision, noted in the meeting minutes, is appealable to the City Council within 10 days.

Humboldt Transit Authority's Hydrogen Fueling Station Gets Green Light

The HTA secured approval for a new hydrogen fueling station at 133 V Street. The project involves demolishing an existing building and constructing the station, including a temporary fueling unit and maintenance bay retrofits. The HTA project manager confirmed that Lindy Engineering and the Schatz Energy Research Center at Cal Poly Humboldt, both with considerable experience in hydrogen infrastructure, are involved. Like Jack's Seafood project, this also requires a CDP, Design Review, and a lot merger. The commission's approval includes conditions addressing mitigation of environmental impacts (through a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program), obtaining necessary permits and approvals, managing construction noise and outdoor lighting, and implementing an Access Management Plan to handle temporary street closures. An additional condition was added, stemming from concerns raised regarding PG&E infrastructure. The project also necessitates a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review.

Next Steps and Public Involvement

The City Council will review appeals of the Jack's Seafood CDP decision within 10 days of the September 10th meeting. Additionally, the Humboldt County Office of Education has until September 27th to confirm the consistency of their planned acquisition of 1105 Myrtle Avenue with the City's General Plan. Information on future planning commission meetings and opportunities for public involvement can be found on the City of Eureka website at [https://www.eurekaca.gov/662/Agendas-Minutes](https://www.eurekaca.gov/662/Agendas-Minutes).