"The request involves changing the land use designation and rezoning approximately 80 acres primarily used for residential uses within the town of Scotia," said a county staff report. "Existing residential portions of the town are proposed to be changed from industrial general to residential low density." Areas of the town that currently include developed utility infrastructure would switch from industrial general or timberlands to public facility. Other areas that have existing commercial uses would be changed from industrial general to commercial general or commercial recreation. The board will take public comment and decide whether they will consider the amendments for "processing, review and consideration," the report reads. "If accepted, final approval of the proposed amendment will be dependent upon a further showing that the request is both 'in the public interest' and 'consistent with a comprehensive view of the General Plan.'" The justification for the rezone is that administration and maintenance of the town is no longer part of the company's core business. "For several years, Palco employees have inquired about purchasing the house that they rent from Palco," the staff report reads. "In order to help employees realize the 'American Dream' of home ownership, the company is now willing to implement a program of home sales. Employees, retired employees and residents of Scotia will be presented with the opportunity to purchase a house in Scotia. It is also possible that sales could be made available to the general public." The board will also hear from the accountants Bartig, Basler & Ray. They have completed their audit of Humboldt County's financial statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2004, and have issued their report. The report includes the county's financial statements, federal financial assistance programs and management comments. The meeting starts at 9 a.m. The public hearing on Scotia's rezoning will occur at 1:45 p.m. |
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