Archaeological survey required for Elk bluff-top retaining wall and septic project

Sandy Adeyemo, planner with Mendocino County Planning and Building Services, opened the commission’s July 15 special meeting and presented Case CDP20260002, a coastal bluff-top project in Elk proposing a retaining wall and a new on-site septic system to serve an existing single-family residence at 5500 South Highway 1.

Commissioner Bill Cole recommended that the commission require an archaeological survey, noting the parcel’s bluff-top setting and a watercourse (Wood Creek) about 900 feet away. “So I would recommend a survey,” Cole said. Commissioners discussed the extent of potential ground disturbance and the Northwest Information Center’s recommendation that a survey be performed.

Adeyemo read project details: the case was filed Jan. 27, 2026; the owner is Robert Matson and the agent is Michael Powers; the assessor’s parcel number is 12716005 and the staff planner is Jesse Waltman. After discussion, Cole moved to request a survey and Commissioner Nancy Johnson seconded. The commission voted 4–0 to require the survey.

The commission’s action also included direction that any future ground disturbance within areas where artifacts or potentially eligible sites are identified must be brought before the commission for eligibility determination, consistent with the discovery process the commission applies to projects in sensitive areas. The meeting record shows the motion carried by roll call vote.

The commission did not specify a timeline for the survey in the motion; the staff planner listed for the case is Jesse Waltman. The commission noted that industry and native-representative seats remain vacant on the commission and encouraged tribal contact for sensitive coastal projects. The commission adjourned at 3:06 p.m.