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Residents press Half Moon Bay to remove creek debris and address encampments after storm damage
Summary
Neighbors at Frenchman's Creek and other coastside residents urged the council to clear tree debris and address eucalyptus and encampment hazards that pose flood and fire risks; council and staff discussed sanctioned sites, enforcement and environmental limits on riparian clearance.
Several residents used the council priority session to press for immediate action after storm‑season damage and continuing hazards along creeks and bluff edges.
Leslie Anne DeMan, who identified her residence in the Frenchman's Creek area, told the council that tree limbs and trunks left after clearing work on private property have been deposited in a creek channel and are now blocking flow. “Those limbs and tree trunks that they put into the creek have been left there and are falling into the flow of the creek,” DeMan said, and she asked the city to pursue funding to remove debris and hazardous trees before an emergency occurs.
Why it matters: piling debris in channels can increase flood risk during heavy rains; large eucalyptus trees next to neighborhoods present known wildfire and windfall hazards. Residents also reported collapsed trees and fence damage in past storms.
Council discussion and public comments broadened the topic to homelessness and unauthorized encampments in riparian corridors. Several speakers and council members said they do not want continued camping in creek and habitat areas. Council members and staff discussed options that range from increased cleanup and enforcement in riparian zones to exploring “sanctioned” alternatives or temporary sites for people who refuse shelter, together with outreach and service referrals. Staff and the council emphasized coordination with county social‑service providers and the sheriff’s office for enforcement and outreach operations.
A staff member noted waterways have “beneficial uses” designated by the State Water Resources Control Board, and that permitting and water‑quality rules limit what can be removed from riparian channels without environmental review and permits. Bozorginia and other staff said the city can respond quickly to urgent debris that blocks flow, but broad tree removal or creek excavation requires environmental review and may need outside funding.
Next steps: staff will evaluate immediate debris removal needs for Frenchman's Creek and other urgent locations, check permitting and funding options, and will meet with county partners and service providers to explore alternatives for encampment resolution and prevention.
