Fortuna Planning Commission Approves Subdivision, Addresses Resident Concerns

The Fortuna Planning Commission convened on June 10, 2025, addressing a minor subdivision and fielding public comments regarding project approvals. The meeting, lasting approximately 16 minutes, was held in person with a video recording available online for remote viewing. Community Development Director Shari Meads, Deputy City Engineer, and Commissioners Kine, Nichols, Amen, and Halley were present.

The commission's primary focus was on Item 6: Resolution P-2025-3127, proposing the subdivision of Assessor's Parcel Number 200-062-005. Director Meads presented a proposal to divide the 3.97-acre parcel into two lots one acre and 2.97 acres, with the existing home situated on the larger lot. The project was deemed exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) due to its density aligning with or falling below the General Plan's standards for the parcel. Following discussion, the commission unanimously approved the resolution with conditions outlined within the document. No specific action items were explicitly detailed, but the approval implies staff will implement the conditions.

Public comment included concerns from Donald J. Kleek, who expressed frustration with the apparent difficulty in obtaining approvals from the City of Fortuna Planning Department. Kleek cited his Rohner Ranch project, submitted May 7, 2025, which remained without a formal response as of June 10th. He highlighted the zoning's lack of provisions for a Grange Hall or community use, stating that a required additional use permit would likely be denied due to parking limitations. Kleek questioned the rationale behind rejecting applications that primarily benefit the community.

Looking ahead, the Fortuna Planning Commission announced their next meeting will feature a review of the Humboldt Senior Resources Center, a proposed 66-bed supportive housing project for seniors and people with disabilities. The full meeting video and agendas are available at https://www.friendlyfortuna.com/agendas_and_minutes/agenda_packets_and_minutes/index.php. Residents are encouraged to participate in future meetings and review the posted agendas for upcoming discussions.