Board approves rescinding development‑rights agreement to allow second residence on 115‑acre agricultural parcel

Sutter County staff presented a request to rescind a recorded development‑rights agreement on a 115.49‑acre agricultural parcel to permit construction of a single‑family residence. The parcel is zoned AG‑80, which generally allows one primary residence per 80 acres, and staff recommended denial because allowing an additional residence would exceed density limits and conflict with prior recorded restrictions.

The applicant's representative said the proposal is intended to keep the farm in operation by allowing a family member to live and work on the property. Board members discussed the tension between strict consistency with the general plan and practical family succession concerns; staff noted a previously prepared mitigated negative declaration for the project but also noted that CEQA review is not required if the board denies the project.

After discussion the board voted to waive the development‑rights restriction for this parcel. Supervisors said they were mindful of precedent but emphasized the applicant's long‑term ties to farming in the county and interest in keeping family operations viable. The action allows the owner to pursue building permits and infrastructure (septic/well) consistent with county permitting requirements.