Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Subdivision Modification topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission approves post‑modification to long‑running Yordonov subdivision; surveyor warns geotech requirement could cost tens of thousands
Summary
The commission approved a post‑modification to the Yordonov tentative map (P‑26‑04), allowing changes to how geotechnical studies and a road easement are handled; the project has a July 17 recording deadline and public testimony highlighted a possible geotech cost of about $60,000 for a 160‑acre parcel.
The Trinity County Planning Commission on May 28 recommended approval of a post‑modification to the Yordonov subdivision (P‑26‑04), a long‑running project that began in 2017. Staff recommended the commission find the post‑modification categorically exempt from CEQA and approved the proposed resolution for the 2026 post modification; the commission voted to pass the motion, with one abstention and one absence reported.
Staff explained the two key modification requests: (1) instead of requiring a geotechnical report covering the entire parcel prior to final map recording, the applicant proposes the requirement be shifted to a Notice of Environmental Constraints so geotechnical work would be required prior to site development; and (2) dedicate Pland Creek Road as an easement while allowing the county to formally reject off‑road dedication so the county need not assume maintenance responsibility. Staff also noted the U.S. Forest Service had since indicated the Forest Service road is dedicated as public access, reducing the need for further Forest Service approvals.
Nathaniel Gvette, the project surveyor, described the project's complicated eight‑plus year history and estimated that a geotechnical report covering a 160‑acre parcel could cost "upwards of $60,000," arguing that condition is disproportionate for large, 40‑acre parcels and recommending geotechnical review at the building permit stage instead. A county senior engineer (Andrew Pence) clarified that county code requires constructed access that meets county road standards for parcels adjacent to county roads and that improvements may be bonded and completed within state law timeframes.
The commission moved and seconded a resolution to find the project exempt under CEQA (§15061(b)(3)) as a common‑sense exemption and to approve the post‑modification; the roll call returned three yes votes, one abstention and one absence. Staff reminded the applicant that extensions of time are exhausted and the applicant has until July 17 to record the final map and wrap up loose ends; the item will also return to the Board of Supervisors for final action because the board originally approved the subdivision and must approve subsequent changes to its conditions.
Next steps: the planning commission's recommendation will be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors; the applicant must complete the final map and associated conditions by the stated July 17 deadline or seek additional authorized relief.
