Clear Lake planning commission approves 22-lot Danco subdivision despite tribal and environmental objections

The Clear Lake Planning Commission voted unanimously on Dec. 18 to approve SD 2201, a 22-lot subdivision proposed by Danco Communities at 2890 Old Highway 53.

The motion to approve the subdivision — which identifies the site as approximately 30 acres to be divided into 22 residential lots with lot sizes ranging from roughly 1.25 to 2.5 acres and served by Highlands Water with on-site septic — passed 5-0 after public comment and a staff presentation. Commissioner Inglis moved the item; Commissioner Coker seconded. A roll-call vote recorded Commissioners Smalley, Inglis, Coker, Vice Chair Stewart (Harry Stewart) and Chair Williams voting "aye." The commission adopted Resolution PC 23-07.

The decision followed a detailed staff presentation summarizing project history, environmental review and prior surveys conducted by Dr. White of Subterra Heritage Resource Investigations. Staff described the project changes from an earlier 2006 mitigated negative declaration, the results of AB 52 tribal consultation and the MND prepared for this application. Staff noted that Dr. White identified two newly discovered sites (one historic-area site and one prehistoric tribal cultural resource labeled CRO2) and recommended designing the plan to avoid CRO2 and provide a 35-foot no-disturbance buffer.

The hearing included sustained concerns from the Koi Nation and local environmentalists. Bill Chisholm, representing the Koi Nation, and Koi Nation legal and cultural representatives urged stronger tribal-cultural-resources (TCR) mitigation…