The Mendocino County Board of Supervisors convened on September 9, 2025, to discuss a significant appeal regarding the construction of a new cell tower in Willits. The meeting focused on the appeal of Use Permit 2024-0004, which involves a proposed 65-foot tall cellular antenna tower designed in a monopine style, along with associated ground equipment.

Julia Krog, the Director of Planning and Building Services, presented the details of the project. The Planning Commission initially reviewed the proposal on June 5, 2025, but continued the hearing to June 19 due to delays in the posting of necessary documents. On June 19, the commission approved the use permit with specific conditions, including a notable condition—Condition 29—requiring the remediation of existing code violations on the property before a building permit could be issued.

The applicant subsequently filed an appeal on June 30, arguing that Condition 29 exceeded the Planning Commission's authority and could lead to unreasonable delays in the permit process, potentially violating federal telecommunications regulations. The appeal also raised concerns about the constitutionality of the condition and its proportionality to the project's impacts.

During the meeting, Krog noted that code enforcement had identified several violations on the property following a site inspection. The Board of Supervisors was presented with options regarding Condition 29, including the possibility of deleting it, modifying it to apply only to the lease area, or retaining it with a revised timeline for compliance.

Staff recommended adopting a resolution to uphold the appeal and modify the Planning Commission's approval of the use permit. The Board's decision on this matter could significantly impact the timeline and feasibility of the cell tower project, which aims to enhance wireless service in the area. The discussion highlighted the ongoing balance between development needs and regulatory compliance in Mendocino County.