🏛️ Mendocino County

Supervisors Reject Permanent Road Sales Tax in Split Vote
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · July 24
Mendocino County supervisors voted 3-2 on July 21 against placing a permanent 1% road-repair sales tax on the November ballot, one vote short of the four needed to advance it. The measure would have raised about $5.5 million a year — far below the $220 million officials estimate is needed over the next decade to restore county roads.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/supervisors-reject-permanent-road-tax

Grand Jury Faults County on Fire-Safe Rules
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · July 24
The Board of Supervisors appointed a two-member committee on July 21 to respond to a civil grand jury report criticizing its oversight of Planning and Building Services. A resident noted the county still has not fully implemented fire-safety regulations required under Public Resources Code Section 4290, an issue flagged in the prior year’s grand jury report.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/grand-jury-faults-county-on-fire-safety-rules

Sheriff Warns Vacancy Rate Is Near 45%
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · July 24
Sheriff Matt Kendall told supervisors on July 21 that his department’s effective vacancy rate approaches 45% once employees on leave are counted. The board responded by unanimously funding five previously unfunded positions at an estimated cost of just over $1 million a year from the general fund.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/sheriff-warns-vacancy-rate-is-near-45-percent

Mendocino County Missed $3 Billion in Taxable Property Value Over Five Years, Records Show
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · July 23
The county Assessor’s Office failed to timely assess roughly $3 billion in property value over tax years 2021 through 2025, delaying about $33 million a year in tax revenue, records show. Most was recovered through late corrections, but some assessments fell outside California’s four-year statute of limitations and could not be recouped.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/mendocino-county-missed-3-billion

District 3 Candidate Eric Hart Lives in a House in District 3
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · July 23
District 3 supervisor candidate Eric Hart moved his primary residence from a District 4 cabin to a home on Williams Ranch Road inside District 3 in 2025, making him eligible to represent District 3 on the board of supervisors. County counsel declined to pause certification of the June 2 Primary Election in response to a resident’s complaint about his residency status.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/d3-candidate-eric-hart-lives-in-d3

Six Months After State Audit, County Departments Report Uneven Progress on Reforms
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · July 22
Six months after the December 2025 state audit, Mendocino County departments reported mixed progress on required reforms, with two department heads submitting written updates but the Assessor’s office missing the deadline entirely. The state auditor has yet to verify the responses.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/county-offers-updates-six-months-after-audit

🚒 Boonville

PG&E Crew Sparks Gowan Fire in Anderson Valley; Volunteers Stop It Quick
By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · July 20
A PG&E crew accidentally ignited a grass fire in Anderson Valley when a hot bolt they were cutting fell into dry grass across from Don Gowan’s farm. Volunteer firefighters, including a father-and-son team, contained the blaze in under an hour using water and retardant.
Read more: https://mendocinocoast.news/your-monday-paper-7-20-26-willits-senior-housing-project-sells-for-10-8-million-what-happened-at-the-gowan-fire-stop-that-sticker-sticking/

🌲 Caspar

Caspar Pond Trail opens Saturday with help from grant and landowner
By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice · July 21
The new Caspar Pond Trail opens to the public Saturday, July 25, made possible by a $55,000 grant from the Mendocino Coast Audubon Society and a public-access easement donated by landowner Michael St. John. The Mendocino Land Trust will maintain the birding trail, and a ribbon-cutting and informal bird walk are set for 11 a.m.
Read more: https://mendovoice.com/2026/07/caspar-pond-trail-opens-saturday-with-help-from-grant-and-landowner/

⛰️ Covelo

Father and Son Arrested in Killing of Covelo Mom; Teenage Brother Still Sought
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · July 24
Two brothers are accused of fatally shooting 31-year-old Covelo mother Josepha Littlewolf Basurto at an illegal marijuana grow on July 9, and their father allegedly helped them flee. Authorities are still searching for the 17-year-old, who was not with the others when they were taken into custody.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/father-and-son-arrested-in-covelo-homicide

🌊 Fort Bragg

Woman Swimming the Coast of California to Stop in Fort Bragg Sunday
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal · July 24
Long-distance swimmer Catherine Breed, who set out July 1 to swim all 900 miles of California’s coastline, will make her second of 10 planned stops at the Noyo Center in Fort Bragg on Sunday, July 26, weather permitting. A support vessel backing her swim pulled into Noyo Harbor on Thursday.
Read more: https://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/2026/07/24/woman-swimming-the-coast-of-california-to-stop-in-fort-bragg-sunday/ (Subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal required)

What Will Tomorrow’s Redwood Forest Look Like?
By Mary Rose Kaczorowski, The Mendocino Voice · July 19
CAL FIRE has launched the Coastal Adaptive Management Experiment at Jackson Demonstration State Forest to test three strategies — resistance, resilience and transition — for helping coast redwoods adapt to climate change. Run with the University of Nevada, Reno, the study will monitor 245 plots across about 500 acres for at least 20 years.
Read more: https://mendovoice.com/2026/07/what-will-tomorrows-redwood-forest-look-like/

🛼 Gualala

Long-distance Skater Stops in Gualala
By David Torres, Independent Coast Observer · July 23
Eric Baldwin, 33, of Santee, is a little more than halfway through a journey from Vancouver to San Diego, having started skating on June 22. Baldwin, a hockey coach, is raising money to purchase hockey equipment for under-privileged children.
Read more: https://www.mendonoma.com (Subscription to the Independent Coast Observer required)

🦈 Mendocino

Mendocino Teacher Bitten by Shark Returns to Surf
By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice · July 19
Mendocino High School English teacher James Eastman, who survived shark attack at Big River Beach in March, returned to surf the same spot in July after two surgeries and four months of recovery. A GoFundMe for his care raised $13,806, with surplus funds going to a nonprofit he and his wife created to place bleeding-control kits at high-traffic beaches.
Read more: https://mendovoice.com/2026/07/mendocino-teacher-bit-by-shark-returns-to-surf-same-spot-he-was-attacked/

💡 Point Arena

The Point Arena City Council Approves Three Coastal Development Permits
By Chelsea Randall, Independent Coast Observer · July 23
The Point Arena City Council approved three coastal development permits at its July 21 meeting, advancing upgrades to the city’s wastewater treatment system, the Caltrans Main Street repaving and sidewalk replacement project, and the proposed Rockwall campground.
Read more: https://www.mendonoma.com (Subscription to the Independent Coast Observer required)

💧 Potter Valley

Federal regulators extend Potter Valley comment deadline to September
By Roger Coryell, The Mendocino Voice · July 24
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission pushed back the public comment deadline on PG&E’s Potter Valley Project decommissioning plan from July 24 to September 18, adding nearly two months for input.
Read more: https://mendovoice.com/2026/07/federal-regulators-extend-potter-valley-comment-deadline-to-september/

🏙️ Ukiah

City of Ukiah Responds to Concerns Regarding Flock Safety Cameras
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal · July 23
Ukiah residents have repeatedly pressed the City Council over its network of Flock Safety cameras that scan license plates at the city limits, with speakers at the July 15 meeting warning of mass surveillance. City officials have defended the cameras as a net public-safety benefit.
Read more: https://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/2026/07/23/city-of-ukiah-responds-to-concerns-regarding-flock-safety-cameras/ (Subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal required)

Ukiah Gigabit Fiber Project Progresses to Activation Phase
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal · July 21
Ukiah’s high-speed fiber project began activating service in July, with crews having installed nearly 50,000 linear feet of fiber — about 45% of Phase 1 — and 85% of underground construction complete. The network aims to improve connectivity for city facilities and hundreds of previously “unserved” households.
Read more: https://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/2026/07/21/ukiah-gigabit-fiber-project-progresses-to-activation-phase/ (Subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal required)

🚂 Willits

Grocery Outlet Donates Food to Willits Community Services
By Willits Weekly · July 23
Grocery Outlet donated nine pallets of food to the Willits Food Bank even as the store remained closed for repairs caused by the earthquake. “The good news is we’ve got a lot of good stuff going over to the Food Bank, the bad news is we’re still a few weeks away [from reopening],” said David McKinney of the Willits Grocery Outlet.
Read more: https://www.willitsweekly.com

Willits Senior Housing project sells for $10.8 million
By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · July 20
Redwood Meadows Senior Apartments, a roughly 140-resident complex for people over 55 at 1475 Baechtel Road in Willits, sold for $10.8 million on June 18, with the deal recorded the following week. Echelon Properties LLC bought the property from firms tied to Theodore Caldwell.
Read more: https://mendocinocoast.news/your-monday-paper-7-20-26-willits-senior-housing-project-sells-for-10-8-million-what-happened-at-the-gowan-fire-stop-that-sticker-sticking/

🐻 CalMatters

California Can’t Replant Its Forests as Fast as Wildfires Are Destroying Them
By Rachel Becker, CalMatters · July 24
High-severity wildfires have burned 2.3 million acres of California forestland over the past 25 years, and projections show half the state’s forest area could disappear by 2071 as replanting falls behind. Closing the gap would require expanding seed-bank capacity by roughly 300% and rebuilding a badly depleted federal reforestation workforce.
Read more: https://calmatters.org/environment/wildfires/2026/07/wildfires-california-forest-reforestation-seed/

California weighs bringing back the grizzly bear, a century after it vanished
By Ryan Sabalow, CalMatters · July 23
Democrats are advancing Senate Bill 1305 to study whether California should reintroduce grizzly bears, extinct in the state since the 1920s. At least 40 groups including tribes and environmental advocates back the measure, while ranchers, rural communities and Republicans oppose it, citing existing predator conflicts and the state’s capacity to manage another apex predator.
Read more: https://calmatters.org/politics/2026/07/california-grizzly-bear-reintroduction-bill/

Additions: The story on the Civil Grand Jury report , the Point Arena Veterans’ Monument, the sentencing of Cayden Paul Craig, and additional CalFire protections for prescribed burns (July 4, 2026, 2:49 p.m.)

🌲 Mendocino County

Fireworks and other Festivities
By MendoLocal.News · July 4
A Fourth of July cheat sheet.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/fireworks-and-festivities-on-the

State Senate Panel Advances Forest Management Bill
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · July 3
A Senate committee passed AB 2494, a bill that shifts forest management priorities at state forests toward restoration, wildfire resilience, and tribal co-management. It affects Jackson Demonstration State Forest, the state’s largest demonstration forest, and now heads to Appropriations.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/state-senate-panel-advances-forest-management-bill

Grand Jury Report Takes Board of Supervisors to Task
Karen Elowitt, Independent Coast Observer · July 2
The Mendocino County Civil Grand Jury on June 24 released "From Policy to Practice: Digging Deeper into the Board of Supervisors Oversight of Planning and Building Services." The 71-page report concludes that insufficient oversight has left the department without the written policies, procedures, and accountability needed to consistently enforce state law, protect public safety, and maintain public confidence.
Read more: www.mendonoma.com (Subscription to the Independent Coast Observer required.)

CAL FIRE Increases Precautionary Measures Around Prescribed Burns in Wake of the Putah Fire
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · June 30
After the Putah Fire escaped a 45-acre prescribed burn near Napa on June 8 and grew to 860 acres, CAL FIRE brought extra resources to its own 400-acre roadside burn along Highway 101 south of Ukiah. The caution paid off June 25 when the Arrow Fire briefly slipped containment but was stopped at 1.7 acres in 40 minutes, with one firefighter suffering minor injuries.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/cal-fire-increases-precautionary

Court commits sex offender to state hospital as Sexually Violent Predator
Mendocino County District Attorney’s Office · June 26
A judge ruled Johnny Lee Rain, 51, a Sexually Violent Predator and ordered him to Coalinga State Hospital for indefinite commitment, just as he neared release from a 23-year sentence. Prosecutors cited a decade of escalating assaults from 1992 to 2002.
Read more: https://www.facebook.com/MendocinoCountyDistrictAttorney

📍 Covelo

Covelo woman arrested after victim escapes alleged attempted robbery
By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice · July 1
A Covelo woman, Abigail Sanchez-Santos, 39, faces attempted murder, attempted robbery, kidnapping, and criminal threats after allegedly striking her roommate with a rifle and pulling the trigger, which failed when the weapon malfunctioned.
Read more: https://mendovoice.com/2026/07/covelo-woman-arrested-after-victim-escapes-alleged-attempted-robbery/

🌊 Fort Bragg

Fort Bragg City Council Renews $180K Marketing Contract Despite Brouhaha Over AI-generated Fourth of July Flyer
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · July 3
The Fort Bragg City Council voted 5–0 to renew an $180,000 annual marketing contract despite public outcry over an AI-generated Fourth of July flyer with fabricated images and an incorrect date. Idea Cooperative President Tom Kavanaugh took “full responsibility” and noted the flyer ran only 2.5 hours before removal.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/fort-bragg-city-council-renews-marketing-contract

Investigation finds rodeo horse Caddy killed accidentally by pellet gun
By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · July 1
Caddy, a championship rodeo horse belonging to 17-year-old rider Adeline Shattuck, died June 11 after being hit with a pellet from a pellet gun. Investigators found no malicious intent, and no charges were filed.
Read more: https://mendocinocoast.news/your-thursday-paper-circus-in-town-mystery-photo-our-investigation-determined-caddy-the-rodeo-horse-was-killed-by-pellet-gun-caltrans-struggles-with-blues-beach-shutdown/

Floyd and Connie’s opens permanent Fort Bragg restaurant
By Mandela Linder, The Mendocino Voice · July 1
After running a weekly pop-up out of Cafe Beaujolais since 2022, Stephanie Butler and Nick Dorgan are opening a permanent spot at Noyo Harbor serving updated American classics. Soft opening around July 9, full opening July 16.
Read more: https://mendovoice.com/2026/07/after-years-of-pop-ups-floyd-and-connies-opens-a-permanent-fort-bragg-restaurant/

Summer programs kick off at the C.V. Starr Center
By Carole Brodsky, Ukiah Daily Journal · July 2
The C.V. Starr Center has a full summer of youth programming — swim, camps, soccer, and a “Dive into Reading” partnership with the Fort Bragg Library — led by Recreation Coordinator Ann Leach.
Read more: https://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/2026/07/02/splash-into-summer-happenings-at-the-c-v-starr-center/

Fort Bragg Man Accused of Prowling Sentenced to Six Years for Sex Crime
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · June 30
Cayden Paul Craig, 24, was sentenced June 27 to six years under a plea deal after entering a Fort Bragg home through a bedroom window and sexually assaulting the resident — a crime DNA evidence tied him to. With credit for time served he's set for release in June 2030 and must register as a sex offender.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/fort-bragg-prowler-sentenced

🌅 Point Arena

Veterans Monument in Point Arena Nears Completion
Chelsea Randall, Independent Coast Observer · July 2
The project’s six basalt columns were installed in April and concrete work is expected to be completed in early July.
Read more: www.mendonoma.com (Subscription to the Independent Coast Observer required)

🍇 Redwood Valley

$1.7 million farm sale closes in Redwood Valley
By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · June 28
A 65-acre spread at 9550 N. Highway 101 — vineyard, open ground, and a home — sold for $1.7 million to two local couples, the Bowers and the Harringtons, from a Miami-based seller.
Read more: https://mendocinocoast.news/your-monday-paper-who-shot-the-horses-and-why-1-7-million-farm-sale-in-redwood-valley-salmon-fishing-still-stinks-and-there-is-still-time-to-get-a-better-albion-bridge/

🚴 Ukiah

Ukiah City Council OKs moving forward with downtown code changes
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal · July 3
The Ukiah City Council approved moving forward with a two-part plan to revise the Downtown Zoning Code, extending the C-1 Commercial zone westward to encourage development along Perkins Street.
Read more: https://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/2026/07/03/ukiah-city-council-oks-moving-forward-with-downtown-code-changes/

Ukiah City Council green-lights increasing recreation program fees
By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice · July 2
The Ukiah City Council voted unanimously to raise fees for community services including youth sports, the Grace Hudson Museum, and the city pool, Low-income discounts for youth sports remain available.
Read more: https://mendovoice.com/2026/07/ukiah-city-council-green-lights-increasing-recreation-program-fees/

🌊 Westport

Blues Beach transfers to tribal nonprofit as Caltrans navigates July 4 closure
By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice · July 2, and Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · July 1
Caltrans is transferring the 136-acre Blues Beach coastal property, at no cost, to Kai Poma, a nonprofit organized by the Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians, Round Valley Indian Tribes, and Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians. Meanwhile, an announced a July 4 vehicle closure was rolled back; pedestrian access remains throughout.
Read more: https://mendovoice.com/2026/07/blues-beach-near-westport-transfers-to-local-tribal-nonprofit/ https://mendocinocoast.news/your-thursday-paper-circus-in-town-mystery-photo-our-investigation-determined-caddy-the-rodeo-horse-was-killed-by-pellet-gun-caltrans-struggles-with-blues-beach-shutdown/

🚂 Willits

Willits City Council Grapples with Looming General Fund Deficit
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · July 1
Under a fiscal emergency declared in April 2025, Willits will draw $484,000 from reserves in its 2026–27 budget, with $6.3 million in general fund expenses against $4.6 million in baseline revenue. Council member Bruce Burton pressed for 10% operating cuts.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/willits-city-council-june-24-2026j

Willits Grocery Outlet Gets Yellow Tagged Following Quake
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · July 1
An earthquake damaged a critical support column inside the Grocery Outlet at 1718 S. Main Street, prompting a yellow tag that bars public occupancy until repairs are made.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/willits-grocery-outlet-gets-yellow-tag

Mendocino County Museum expands access, celebrates successes
By Carole Brodsky, Ukiah Daily Journal · July 2
The Mendocino County Museum in Willits has revitalized itself over the past decade, and now features a room of restored trains from Roots of Motive Power open daily. Administrator Karen Mattson and curator Lindsey Dick are working to raise the institution’s profile as the county’s museum, not just the “Willits Museum.
Read more: https://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/2026/07/02/mendocino-county-museum-expands-access-celebrates-successes/

🏛️ CALMATTERS

Gas Prices are High for July 4. Price-gouging Fixes Remain on the Shelf.
By Alejandro Lazo, CalMatters · July 3
Feeling the pinch of high gas prices? The state’s petroleum watchdog has identified a problem that goes beyond refinery capacity: branded gas stations like Chevron are charging significantly more than unbranded competitors, with pricing shaped by algorithms, supplier contracts, and brand power. Meanwhile, California’s most aggressive price-control tools—including a refinery margin penalty—remain shelved after the state backed away from them last year.
Read more: https://calmatters.org/environment/2026/07/california-gas-prices-july-fourth/

Federal Judge Blocks Trump Administration’s Shift Away from Permanent Homeless Housing
By Marisa Kendall, CalMatters · July 2
A federal judge this week shot down the Trump administration’s attempt to steer billions in homeless funding away from permanent housing and toward temporary shelters and sobriety programs. The judge called the effort “the hallmark of unreasoned decision making.” Last year, California communities spent about 90% their share of federal HUD money on permanent housing. The fight is far from over. Last week, the administration moved to shift 2026 federal funding away from permanent housing and the housing first framework.
Read more: https://calmatters.org/housing/homelessness/2026/07/trump-homeless-funding-judge/

🏛️ Mendocino County

Mendocino County Superior Court photo contest nears deadline
By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice · June 26
The Mendocino County Superior Court is accepting photography submissions in seven categories through July 31. The top two photos in each category will be displayed in the county’s new courthouse when it opens in 2027, with winners announced in September.
Read more: https://mendovoice.com/2026/06/mendocino-county-superior-court-photo-contest-nears-deadline/

Supervisors Give Ukiah Annexation Talks More Time
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · June 25
Supervisors voted 4-1 to preserve the Master Tax Sharing Agreement, allowing negotiations over Ukiah’s proposed annexation to continue despite opposition from county residents in the affected area.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/supervisors-give-ukiah-annexation

Sara Pierce Elevated to Interim CEO
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · June 25
The Mendocino County Board of Supervisors voted 4-1 to appoint Assistant CEO Sara Pierce as interim chief executive officer, effective July 13, while the county continues its search for a permanent CEO.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/sara-pierce-elevated-to-interim-ceo

As contract nears end, Mendocino County offers its workers 1%
By Roger Coryell, The Mendocino Voice · June 24
County employees protested management’s offer of a 1% wage increase as negotiations continue ahead of their contract’s June 30 expiration.
Read more: https://mendovoice.com/2026/06/as-contract-nears-end-mendocino-county-offers-its-workers-1/

North Coast Opportunities closed seven programs in two years
By Roger Coryell, The Mendocino Voice · June 22
North Coast Opportunities has closed seven community programs over the past two years, citing funding shortfalls and a shift in organizational priorities. Programs included a community garden, soup kitchen, and food services.
Read more: https://mendovoice.com/2026/06/north-coast-opportunities-closed-seven-programs-in-two-years/

🏠 Fort Bragg

Affordable Workforce Housing Coming to South Franklin Street in Fort Bragg
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · June 26
The Fort Bragg City Council backed Housing Mendocino Coast’s proposal to build 12 to 13 affordable homes using a community land trust model to preserve long-term affordability.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/affordable-workforce-housing-coming-to-fort-bragg

Texas man uses two-way camera to scare off burglars from vacant oceanfront home
By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · June 24
A Texas resident used a Ring camera to stop an attempted burglary at his parents’ home near Fort Bragg by speaking to the suspects remotely before deputies arrived.
Read more: https://mendocinocoast.news/texas-man-uses-two-way-camera-to-scare-off-burglars-from-vacant-oceanfront-home/

🌲 Navarro

Logging truck driver dies after rig hits tree near Navarro Store; community rallies to get his dog home
By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · June 24
Ed Walker, 69, died after his logging truck overturned on Highway 128. His dog Tommy was later reunited with family members.
Read more: https://mendocinocoast.news/logging-truck-driver-dies-after-rig-hits-tree-near-navarro-store-community-rallies-to-get-his-dog-home/

🦒 Point Arena

Critically Endangered Antelope Species Arrives at B. Bryan Preserve
By Chelsea Randall, Independent Coast Observer
Three endangered addax antelope have arrived at B. Bryan Preserve, expanding the preserve’s conservation program.
Read more: https://mendonoma.com (Subscription to the Independent Coast Observer required)

💧Potter Valley

Feds take Potter Valley dam “public” comments privately Tuesday evening
By Roger Coryell, The Mendocino Voice · June 25
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission held private, one-on-one scoping sessions on PG&E’s Potter Valley Project removal proposal.
Read more: https://mendovoice.com/2026/06/feds-take-potter-valley-dam-public-comments-privately-tuesday-evening/

🌿 Redwood Valley

The Coyote Fire: A Frightening Fire Drill
By Adam Gaska, MendoLocal.News · June 28
A fast-moving wildfire near the Coyote Valley Casino in Redwood Valley prompted a rapid evacuation order on June 25, 2026, giving residents and emergency responders a real-world test of their preparedness. One resident’s account details the frantic 10 minutes spent preparing their home—from changing clothes to staging valuables and laying out hoses—before fire crews stopped the forward progress of the blaze and the evacuation order was lifted.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/the-coyote-fire-a-frightening-fire

Redwood Valley Residents File CEQA Lawsuit to Block Gas Station
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · June 25
Residents filed a lawsuit challenging the county’s approval of a proposed gas station, alleging officials failed to prepare an Environmental Impact Report.
Read more: https://www.mendolocal.news/p/redwood-valley-residents-file-ceqa-lawsuit

Mendocino County monks mark 30 years on “Fearless Mountain”
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal · June 23
Abhayagiri Monastery is celebrating its 30th anniversary as a Theravada Buddhist monastery in Redwood Valley.
Read more: https://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/2026/06/23/mendocino-county-monks-mark-30-years-on-fearless-mountain/ (Subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal required.)

🥾 Ukiah

New Ukiah trail celebrated Saturday
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal · June 25
The Gateway Trail Loop has opened on Lookout Peak, becoming the first section of a planned 20-mile trail network.
Read more: https://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/2026/06/25/new-ukiah-trail-to-be-celebrated-saturday/ (Subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal required.)

🤠 Willits

Willits Frontier Days kicks off with plenty of fun ahead
By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice · June 26
The 100th annual Willits Frontier Days celebration continues through July 4 with rodeo events, truck pulls, art shows, and a centennial parade.
Read more: https://mendovoice.com/2026/06/willits-frontier-days-kicks-off-with-plenty-of-fun-ahead/

Magnitude 5.6 Earthquake Strikes Near Redwood Valley
By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · June 24
A magnitude 5.6 earthquake shook much of Mendocino County, causing power outages, supermarket closures, and continuing damage assessments.
Read more: https://mendocinocoast.news/5-6-earthquake-rocks-redwood-valley/

🏛️ CALMATTERS

14 Measures on California’s November Ballot: Billionaire Tax, Housing Bond, and More
By Yue Stella Yu and Kristen Hwang, CalMatters
California voters will decide on 14 statewide ballot measures this November, including a high-stakes 5% wealth tax on billionaires, an $11.25 billion affordable housing bond, and a $25 billion homebuying loan program. Other key proposals include making a temporary income tax on high earners permanent, expedited environmental review for development projects, voter ID requirements, and public campaign financing. The measures span taxation, housing, healthcare, elections, and environmental policy—with some facing competing ballot initiatives designed to undercut their impact.
Read more: https://calmatters.org/politics/2026/06/california-ballot-measures-november-election/

How a George Floyd-Inspired California Law Accidentally Weakened Police Accountability
By Nigel Duara and Natasha Uzcátegui-Liggett, CalMatters
In 2020, California transferred responsibility for investigating fatal police shootings from local authorities to the state attorney general, promising faster and more credible investigations. But the system has backfired. Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office now takes an average of nearly two years and five months to complete investigations—well beyond the statute of limitations for many charges and the three-year window for officer decertification. Not a single officer has been prosecuted under the law.
Read more: https://calmatters.org/justice/2026/06/police-shootings-attorney-general/

🏛️ Mendocino County

.Cubbison Settlement Provokes Strong Reactions
Mark Scaramella, The Anderson Valley Advertiser June 18

News that Mendocino County paid Treasurer-Tax Collector Chamise Cubbison $1.5 million to settle claims of malicious prosecution provoked speculation and anger. Last week, Anderson Valley Advertiser Editor Mark Scaramella wrote a column “DA Eyster’s ‘Get Cubbison’ Project Backfires.” The Mendocino Voice, based in Berkeley, CA, described the timing of the news — which was prompted by the fulfillment of a public records request from retired journalist Mike Geniella — as a mystery.
Read more (subscription to the Anderson Valley Advertiser may be required)

Seven California DAs Sued a Gas Station Operator, Including Mendocino County’s David Eyster. Then County Supervisors Approved His Next Station.
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · June 17

Mendocino County’s Board of Supervisors approved a Chevron gas station permit for Faizan Corporation in May 2026, despite the company having been sued by seven California district attorneys — including Mendocino County’s own DA — for systemic environmental violations, and having a prior state cleanup order for benzene contamination at a Ukiah station. The county’s environmental review omitted the enforcement history, and the adopted mitigation plan contains no hazardous materials conditions.
Read more

Real Estate Roundup: $3.75M Ukiah strip mall sale; Laytonville ranch donated; Albion coastal parcels gifted to nonprofit
By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · June 17

A Ukiah strip mall sells for $3.75 million, a 160-acre Laytonville ranch is donated to Colorado-based Christian nonprofit, and oceanfront parcels in Albion are gifted to nonprofits including Planned Parenthood and the Mendocino Land Trust.
Read more

💧Covelo

Tribe with senior Eel River water rights shut out of White House meeting
By Roger Coryell, The Mendocino Voice · June 17

Federal officials met at the White House with PG&E and the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District to discuss the Potter Valley Project’s future, excluding the Round Valley Indian Tribes.
Read more

Green Bridge: $7.5 million, 2–3 years, and a 2024 inspection that rated it “intolerable”
By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · June 15 & 17

Covelo’s collapsed Green Bridge will cost $7.5 million to replace and take two to three years to rebuild; a 2024 inspection rated it “intolerable — needs replacement” with a score of 29 out of 100, identifying 23 girders needing replacement and missing load-path redundancies. No temporary crossing is planned, forcing residents to add a 6.5 mile detour. The driver injured in the June 12 collapse, Jimmy Sausedo, remained hospitalized five days later, while county officials say an unknown external factor likely triggered the sudden failure despite no visible signs of deterioration beforehand.
Read more

🌵Fort Bragg

Giant Agave begins “Death Bloom” at Botanical Gardens
By Carole Brodsky, Ukiah Daily Journal · June 19

The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens is hosting a rare “death bloom” event as its giant Agave salmiana var. ferox sends up a 20-foot flowering spike — a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle that occurs only at the end of the plant’s decades-long life. The spike began growing in November and is expected to flower soon before the plant dies.
Read more (subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal may be required)

Child at center of major search found safe; media urged to pull identifying information
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News · June 18

A non-verbal 10-year-old boy missing in Fort Bragg was found safe, ending a major multi-agency search.
Read more

Fort Bragg municipal fiber project makes headway
By Mary Rose Kaczorowski, The Mendocino Voice · June 18

Fort Bragg’s municipal fiber broadband project has completed its main infrastructure installation, with the final conduit placed in the ground this week. Residential connections are expected in late summer or early fall.
Read more

Fort Bragg City Council Nixes Contract for Fire Tax Consultants
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · June 16

The Fort Bragg City Council rejected a $60,000 consulting contract for voter polling on a proposed fire-equipment parcel tax.
Read more

New Fort Bragg mural celebrates the coast’s slimiest hero
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News · June 16

A new downtown mural featuring a giant banana slug and local landmarks is taking shape across from Fort Bragg City Hall.
Read more

Art Explorers welcomes Disability Pride Month this July
By Carole Brodsky, Ukiah Daily Journal · June 16

Art Explorers has planned a full month of activities celebrating Disability Pride Month and the artists served by the program.
Read more (subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal may be required)

Salmon Season’s First Catch
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News · June 14

Recreational ocean salmon fishing reopened June 13 after a three-year closure, with anglers permitted to keep only Chinook (king) salmon. Keeping endangered coho salmon remains illegal.
Read more

300 turn out for Pride March; International Peace Run passes through
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News · June 13

Fort Bragg’s second annual Pride March drew approximately 300 participants in a festive celebration of LGBTQ+ community visibility. Separately, the International Peace Run passed through the Mendocino Coast with 10 runners from 8 countries.
Read more

🚗 Gualala

Highway 1 Traffic Study Forecasts Slight, Manageable Increase in Traffic
By Karen Elowitt, Independent Coast Observer · June 18

The SR-1 Highway Traffic Capacity Analysis Report, released May 8, concluded the coastal highway has ample capacity to handle projected traffic growth through 2025. The report recommend a new traffic circle for Gualala.
Read more (subscription to the Independent Coast Observer required)

📬 Leggett

Leggett’s post office is back
By Roger Coryell, The Mendocino Voice · June 16

The Leggett Post Office reopened June 15, more than two years after it was destroyed by fire in March 2024.
Read more

🚙 Point Arena

Abandoned Vehicle Found in Garcia River
By Karen Elowitt, Independent Coast Observer · June 18

Authorities are investigating a damaged pickup truck found partially submerged in a shallow section of the Garcia River near Voorhees Memorial Grove.
Read more (subscription to the Independent Coast Observer required)

Point Arena City Council Raises Sewer Rates
By Chelsea Randall, The Independent Coast Observer · June 18

The Point Arena City Council voted to increase sewer rates after a Proposition 218 hearing. The council also discussed a November ballot measure to increase the transient occupancy tax.
Read more (subscription to the Independent Coast Observer required)

🥾Ukiah

New 3.5-mile trail loop in Ukiah set for grand opening Saturday
By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice · June 20

The Gateway Trail Loop, a new 3.5-mile hiking and biking trail in Ukiah, opens Saturday as part of the larger 22-mile Lookout Peak trail network.
Read more

Cirque-A-Palooza brings world-class performers to Ukiah
By Carole Brodsky, Ukiah Daily Journal · June 18

SPACE Performing Arts Center is hosting the first annual Cirque-A-Palooza this Sunday to Pomo Summer Arts and Circus Camp and the SPACE Scholarship Program featuring world-class circus artists, musicians, and Joan Baez.
Read more (subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal may be required)

New ballot measures likely needed to fund fire services, officials report
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal · June 17

Local officials warned that new ballot measures asking residents to fund the Ukiah Valley Fire Authority may be necessary as critical funding is set to sunset in 2030, with gaps in equipment, personnel, and facilities.
Read more (subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal may be required)

🤠 Willits

Wilma Statue Arrives at Willits Frontier Days Grounds
By Maureen Dennison, Willits Weekly · June 18

A new fiberglass statue named "Wilma" has arrived to complement "Willy," the longtime mascot of Willits Frontier Days.
Read more

Brooktrails Township Raises Salaries, Cuts Expenses
By Barbara O’Reardon, Willits Weekly · June 18

Brooktrails officials approved employee raises while balancing the budget through spending reductions.
Read more

Willits City Council — June 10, 2026
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · June 16

The council appointed James Connor interim city manager and proclaimed 2026 "The Year of the Sweetheart" in honor of Frontier Days' 100th anniversary.
Read more

🗳️ CALMATTERS

Why California Won’t Speed Up Its Election Results
By Maya C. Miller, CalMatters · June 20

California’s notoriously slow vote-counting process is back in the spotlight. But state Democratic leaders are refusing to make changes that would restrict voter access — such as earlier mail-in ballot deadlines — to speed up results. The real issue? Counting mail-in ballots takes longer.
Read More

California’s New Health Insurance Tax Could Raise Premiums by $400 a Year
By Ana B. Ibarra, CalMatters · June 18

California legislators approved a redesigned health insurance tax this week to preserve billions in federal Medi-Cal funding. The new plan would raise taxes on private health insurance plans to match those on Medicaid plans, a shift required by new federal rules. If health plans pass the full cost to consumers, a family of four could pay about $400 more annually in premiums.
Read more

California’s Job Training Programs Face Funding Cliff
By Adam Echelman, CalMatters · June 18

The California Workforce Development Board faces a potential 20% staff cut, and flagship programs like “high road training partnerships” could receive little or no new funding—threatening to shut them down within years.
Read more

🏛️ Mendocino County

CAL FIRE Suspends Burn Permits in Mendocino County
By Carole Brodsky, Ukiah Daily Journal · June 13
CAL FIRE will suspend all residential burn permits in Mendocino County beginning June 15 as fire danger rises.
Read more (subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal may be required)

New Book Chronicles Mendocino County’s Cannabis Boom and Bust
By Lin Due, The Mendocino Voice · June 12
British historian Charlie Harris has published Mendo: How an Unlikely Group of Rebels Turned Cannabis into California’s Cash Crop, a history of Mendocino County’s cannabis industry from the back-to-the-land movement to legalization. The book traces the rise of the county’s marijuana economy and the dramatic collapse in prices that followed.
Read more

Youth Turnout Surges as Ballot Count Continues
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · June 12
Youth voter participation nearly doubled statewide compared to the 2022 primary, with ballots cast by voters ages 18–34 up 96%. In Mendocino County, Buffy Wright Bourassa maintained a narrow lead in the District 3 supervisor race while the community college bond measure remained below the 55% threshold needed to pass.
Read more

Residents Face $600 Fines for Missing Jury Duty Hearings
By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice · June 10
About 25 Mendocino County residents will be fined $600 for failing to appear at court-ordered hearings after missing jury duty.
Read more

Fire Safe Council Awards $122,000 for Wildfire Projects
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal · June 10
The Mendocino County Fire Safe Council awarded $122,000 to 14 neighborhood groups, firewise communities, and fire agencies. Grants will fund emergency water supplies, communications equipment, and other wildfire-prevention projects.
Read more (subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal may be required)

Invasive Pikeminnow Continue to Threaten Eel River Salmon
By Roger Coryell, The Mendocino Voice · June 9
Millions of Sacramento pikeminnow now inhabit the upper Eel River watershed, where they prey heavily on young salmon and steelhead. Researchers say long-term recovery depends on restoring colder river conditions rather than fish-removal efforts alone.
Read more

Supervisors Approve Budget Despite Deficit Warnings
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · June 9
The Board of Supervisors approved a $95 million General Fund budget that relies on $2.6 million in one-time funding to balance. Staff warned the county could face a $2.2 million deficit next year, along with rising health care costs tied to federal policy changes.
Read more

No Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter Confirmed in Ukiah Samples
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal · June 9
Testing has not confirmed the presence of the destructive glassy-winged sharpshooter in grapevine samples collected from the Ukiah Costco. County agricultural officials say additional testing is underway and monitoring will continue.
Read more (subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal may be required)

Museum Seeks Submissions for Cannabis History Exhibit
By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice · June 6
The Mendocino County Museum is seeking stories, photos, and artwork for a traveling exhibit on local cannabis history. Submissions are due June 27, and the exhibit is scheduled to open in Willits this October.
Read more

🚧 Covelo

Covelo’s Green Bridge Collapses Into Mill Creek
By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · June 13
Covelo’s 101-year-old Green Bridge collapsed Friday evening while a vehicle was crossing it, sending the driver into Mill Creek with only minor injuries. Mendocino County had been working to replace the aging structure since 2012 but had not yet begun construction.
Read more

🔭 FORT BRAGG

Fort Bragg Installs Scenic Viewing Binoculars Along Coastal Trail
By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice · June 9
Fort Bragg has installed two free binocular stations near Glass Beach, giving visitors a closer look at whales, seabirds, marine life, and coastal scenery. Funded by the Blue Zones Project, the stations offer 10x and 20x magnification and are located south of the Glass Beach on the North Coastal Trail and on the South Coastal Trail near the parking lot.
Read more

Harbor Seal Pups Need Space at Noyo Beach
By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · June 7
Visitors are asked to avoid the north end of Noyo Beach during harbor seal pupping season, which runs through August. Wildlife officials warn that dogs and people can cause mothers to abandon their pups permanently.
Read more

Free Driftwood Collection Allowed Through June 30
By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · June 6
Fort Bragg is allowing residents to collect up to 50 pounds of driftwood per day from Noyo Beach through June 30. Collection must be done by hand during daylight hours, and officials caution against burning salt-soaked driftwood because it releases toxic compounds.
Read more

🚔 LITTLE RIVER

Little River Man Arrested With Stolen Gun, Drugs
By Katy St. Clair, The Mendocino Voice · June 9
Deputies arrested a Little River man on a felony warrant after finding a stolen handgun and suspected methamphetamine during a stop in Fort Bragg. A vehicle search uncovered a loaded shotgun and additional narcotics, leading to multiple felony weapons and drug charges.
Read more

🌊 POINT ARENA

Point Arena Surf Legend Featured in Telluride Film Festival
By Kat Gleason, Independent Coast Observer
A short documentary about Point Arena artist and surf legend Lester DaGradi screened at the prestigious Mountainfilm Festival in Telluride. The film, “Lester,” was directed by Point Arena restaurateur and filmmaker Paul Collins, marking his second appearance at the festival.
Read more (subscription to the Independent Coast Observer required)

Vandalism Forces Closure of Downtown Restrooms
By Kat Gleason, Independent Coast Observer
Point Arena temporarily closed its public restrooms after a string of vandalism incidents. City officials reported extensive damage, including broken fixtures, plumbing repairs, and repeated acts of vandalism inside the facility.
Read more (subscription to the Independent Coast Observer required)

🏢 UKIAH

Residents Pack Annexation Workshop
By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice · June 11
More than 60 residents attended a city workshop on Ukiah’s proposed annexation of surrounding unincorporated areas. City officials said property taxes would not increase and noted residents could halt the proposal through a successful protest process.
Read more

North Coast Opportunities Shutters Programs
By Roger Coryell, The Mendocino Voice · June 10
North Coast Opportunities has eliminated roughly seven programs over the past two years, including food delivery, community leadership and cancer support services. Local officials say the cuts represent a significant shift for one of Mendocino County’s largest nonprofits.
Read more

400-Acre Burn Planned Along Highway 101
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal · June 9
Cal Fire plans to burn about 400 acres of grassland along Highway 101 between Ukiah and Willits later this month. The project is intended to reduce roadside fuel loads and improve firefighter safety.
Read more (subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal may be required)

Deputy Breaks Arm During Arrest
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · June 9
A Mendocino County sheriff’s deputy suffered a broken arm while pursuing a wanted man through a cluttered North State Street property. The suspect, Diego Vallejo, was captured with assistance from Ukiah police and booked on multiple warrants.
Read more

No Invasive Sharpshooter Confirmed
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal · June 9
Testing has not confirmed the presence of the destructive glassy-winged sharpshooter in grapevine samples collected near the Ukiah Costco. County agriculture officials say surveillance remains active while additional laboratory results are pending.
Read more (subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal may be required)

🎓 WILLITS

State Funds Highway 20 Corridor Study
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal · June 10
MCOG has received nearly $188,000 to study traffic flow, pedestrian access and intersection improvements along Highway 20 through Willits. The grant revives discussion of road-diet concepts that predate completion of the Willits Bypass.
Read more

🎓 Rotary Club Awards 12 Student Scholarships
By Mathew Caine, Willits Weekly · June 12
The Willits Rotary Club awarded 12 scholarships to graduating students, including ten academic awards and two vocational scholarships. Recipients were honored at the Little Lake Firehouse.
Read more

🏛️ CALMATTERS

Democrats Use Budget Leverage in Climate Spending Fight
By Alejandro Lazo and Yue Stella Yu · June 12
California Senate Democrats are blocking several of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s budget priorities to force him to honor a climate funding deal reached last year. At stake are billions of dollars for transit, affordable housing and clean water programs that could be cut in half under proposed changes to the state’s carbon market system.
Read more

Lawmakers Block DMV Funding Over Immigrant Data Concerns
By Khari Johnson and Wendy Fry · June 12
California lawmakers are withholding $55 million from the DMV to prevent driver license information from being shared through a nationwide database. Critics warn the system could expose data tied to more than 1 million undocumented Californians and increase the risk of federal immigration enforcement.
Read more

🏛️ MENDOCINO COUNTY

Mendocino College Owes $204 Million in Bond Interest from Measure W, Which Was Approved in 2006

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · May 29

Mendocino-Lake Community College District is asking voters to approve a $98 million bond while carrying $203.9 million in existing debt from a 2006 measure, with repayment extending to 2052. One 2022 Capital Appreciation Bond received $17.8 million but will require $87.26 million at maturity.

🔗 Read more

Measure A Flyers Suggest Bond Would Fund Fire Academy Already Paid for by State

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · May 27

Campaign flyers for Measure A, sponsored by the Mendocino College Foundation, claim the bond will fund a fire academy, but California already announced $20 million in state funding for that facility in March 2026. The measure would authorize $98 million in bonds requiring property owners to repay approximately $210 million total over 35 years, with more than half going to financing costs and interest.

🔗 Read more

A New Vision for Mendocino College Gets Lost in the Fine Print

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · May 29

Mendocino-Lake Community College District is promoting Measure A to fund new facilities in nursing, fire science, and trades across three campuses, but voter materials obscure those specific projects behind lengthy legal language required by California law. District officials acknowledge a communication gap between the visionary master plan driving the initiative and the dense laundry list of approved spending items voters actually see.

🔗 Read more

Ballot Measure A: Fort Bragg Resident Questions True Costs to Homeowners

By Carole Brodsky, Ukiah Daily Journal · May 26

Fort Bragg resident Dennis Miller has presented to local city councils and Democratic clubs arguing that the Mendocino-Lake Community College District’s $98 million Measure A bond conceals its true cost through what he calls “misinformation by omission.” Miller contends the bond could cost property owners up to $400 million in principal and interest, and advocates for a limited-time assessment with a sunset clause as a less expensive alternative.

🔗 Read more (subscription required)

Four Candidates Claim ‘No Reportable Interests’

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · May 30

Four candidates in Mendocino County’s upcoming primary election filed Form 700 disclosure statements reporting no disclosable interests, raising questions about compliance with California’s conflict-of-interest reporting requirements.

🔗 Read more

Supervisors Approve Changes in the Business Improvement District for Lodging

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · May 26

The Mendocino County Board of Supervisors approved governance changes for the county’s tourism organization and directed staff to investigate eliminating a 3% administrative fee. Board Chair Cally Dym said spending would be directed toward areas where the marketing dollars are generated.

🔗 Read more

Complaints Mount Over Neglected Vineyards as Mendocino Wine Industry Faces Intensifying Economic Pressure

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · May 26

The Mendocino County Board of Supervisors directed its agricultural commissioner to enforce minimum maintenance standards for vineyards after receiving complaints that neglected properties are spreading pests and disease to neighboring farms.

🔗 Read more

Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter Pests Not Found in Nymph Tests on Grapevines, But Vigilance Is Urged

Mendocino County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office

The Mendocino County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office has completed inspections of grapevine plants shipped from Burchell Nursery in Fresno County to the Ukiah Costco Wholesale store. While initial laboratory testing by the California Department of Food and Agriculture confirmed that nymph samples were not glassy-winged sharpshooter (GWSS), the department continues heightened surveillance to protect local vineyards.

🔗 Read more

Kittens Are in Season Across Mendocino County

By Roger Coryell, The Mendocino Voice · May 31

The Mendocino County Animal Shelter expects a seasonal influx of kittens driven by unspayed cats. Despite having funds available for spay and neuter services, a critical shortage of veterinarians is leaving contracts unfulfilled.

🔗 Read more

Mendocino County Budget Hearings on Tuesday

By Roger Coryell, The Mendocino Voice · May 30

County supervisors will hold budget hearings Tuesday and Wednesday on a $106.7 million spending plan that relies on $2.6 million in carryover funds to achieve a legally required balanced budget, masking what officials call a structural deficit. The board will also consider an urgency ordinance to accelerate splitting the combined Auditor-Controller/Treasurer-Tax Collector position into two offices by June, rather than January 2027.

🔗 Read more

🚤 FORT BRAGG

Longhorn Ranchers Buy Old Thanksgiving Coffee Site

By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · May 28

Longhorn ranchers Evan “Mac” Siller and Andrea Siller purchased the historic Thanksgiving Coffee building at 19350 South Harbor Drive in Fort Bragg for $240,000, with plans to demolish it and build an upscale charter boat operation.

🔗 Read more

🇺🇸 Mendocino Coast Communities Mark Memorial Day

By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News · May 25–26

Memorial Day services were held in Mendocino at Zenith Hill and in Fort Bragg at Rose Memorial Park, where American Legion Post Sequoia 96 drew more than 70 attendees and unveiled a new veterans memorial honoring all six branches of the U.S. armed forces.

The observances also recognized local fallen: Clyde Lucas, a Mendocino High graduate killed by a land mine in Vietnam whose name was recently restored to the school’s football scoreboard, and the Iversen brothers — two Mendocino Coast natives killed aboard the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor — whose names appear among 45 Mendocino Coast servicemen on bronze plaques at Fort Bragg Veterans Hall.

🔗 Read more

Driftwood Collection Allowed at Noyo Beach Until June 30

By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice · May 29

Fort Bragg is permitting residents to collect driftwood from Noyo Beach through June 30 to reduce fire hazards ahead of the Fourth of July fireworks.

🔗 Read more

📱 GUALALA

From Private Posts to Federal Raids: The Growing Government Dragnet Targeting Online Dissent

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News · May 26

Federal agencies are using administrative subpoenas under a 96-year-old customs law to compel tech companies to reveal the identities of anonymous social media users who criticize government officials or monitor enforcement activities.

🔗 Read more

Escrow Closes on Gualala Hotel

By Kat Gleason, Independent Coast Observer · May 28

Amar Ventures, based in San Jose, has closed escrow on the Gualala Hotel, according to real estate broker Jared Herschler.

🔗 Read more (paid subscription to the Independent Coast Observer required)

📮 LEGGETT

Leggett Post Office Reopens June 15 After Fire Damage

United States Postal Service

The Leggett Post Office will reopen Monday, June 15, 2026, at its original location at 67674 Drive Thru Tree Road following repairs from fire damage. The updated facility will offer full retail and PO Box services during regular business hours, with 24-hour access to the PO Box lobby.

Customers should retrieve any remaining mail from the temporary Garberville location by June 12. PO Box customers will need to present photo identification to receive new key assignments beginning June 15.

🔗 Read more

💧 POTTER VALLEY

FERC Opens Public Comment Period on Potter Valley Hydroelectric Project Surrender and Decommissioning

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has initiated the environmental review process for the proposed surrender and decommissioning of PG&E’s Potter Valley Hydroelectric Project. The agency will prepare an environmental impact document and is seeking public input on environmental effects and possible alternatives.

Two public scoping meetings are scheduled in Ukiah on June 23 and 24. Written comments must be submitted by July 24, 2026.

🔗 Read more

🏫 POINT ARENA

Kashia Elementary School to Merge with Horicon

By Kat Gleason, Independent Coast Observer

The Sonoma County Committee on School District Organization voted on May 22 to permanently close Kashia Elementary School and merge the district into neighboring Horicon School District. Enrollment has remained in the single digits since the 2021–22 school year. Students from Kashia Elementary in the past have attended Point Arena High School.

🔗 Read more (paid subscription to the Independent Coast Observer required)

🥕 UKIAH

Ukiah’s State Street Garden Closes June 30

By Roger Coryell, The Mendocino Voice · May 28

A nearly 20-year-old community garden in Ukiah operated by North Coast Opportunities is closing June 30 after the property owner terminated the lease with only 15 days’ notice — far short of the 90-day clause intended to allow gardeners time to harvest crops. Gardeners with spring plantings still in the ground say they received no advance warning and are scrambling to find alternative plots.

🔗 Read more

Redwood Credit Union Offers Community Financial Counseling

By Carole Brodsky, Ukiah Daily Journal · May 24

Redwood Credit Union has opened a remodeled Ukiah branch offering free financial coaching to members and non-members alike, with five coaches on staff locally and more than 100 across all locations. Programs include a Down Payment Assistance Program with forgivable grants of up to $25,000 for first-time homebuyers and savings tools that helped members save more than $5 million during their first year.

🔗 Read more (paid subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal required)

City of Ukiah to Collect Comments on Annexation Plan Monday

By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal · May 29

The City of Ukiah will hold a public scoping meeting June 1 at the Ukiah Valley Conference Center to gather comments on the environmental impacts of its proposed annexation plan, which would incorporate unincorporated territories currently served by two county water districts. Written comments will be accepted through June 8.

🔗 Read more (paid subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal required)

Forgotten Women Revered at Grace Hudson Museum Exhibit

By Carole Brodsky, Ukiah Daily Journal · May 31

Grace Hudson Museum’s Look Again: Portraits of Daring Women features woodcut and collage portraits of overlooked historical women by artist Julie Lapping Rivera, inspired by The New York Times’ Overlooked obituary series. The exhibit opens June 5 during First Friday, runs through August 16, and includes work from 15 Mendocino County artists.

🔗 Read more (paid subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal required)

Mendocino College Holds 53rd Annual Commencement

By Maureen Jennison, Willits Weekly · May 28

Mendocino College celebrated its 53rd commencement ceremony on May 22, awarding degrees and certificates to 527 students. Student Trustee Sara Munoz delivered the keynote address, and Abigail Strock performed the national anthem.

🔗 Read more

Redwood MetalFest Celebrating 10th Year

By Carole Brodsky, Ukiah Daily Journal · May 28

Redwood MetalFest Chapter X returns to Alex Thomas Plaza in Ukiah on June 13 from noon to 10 p.m., featuring 21 performances and more than 100 musicians. The free, family-friendly event is headlined by Holy Divers, a tribute to Ronnie James Dio, and has grown from roughly 150 attendees at its 2012 debut to about 3,000 attendees last year.

🔗 Read more (paid subscription to the Ukiah Daily Journal required)

🚂 WILLITS

Skunk Train Expands Offerings on Their Willits Line

By Carole Brodsky, Ukiah Daily Journal · May 27

The Skunk Train is launching Railcoaster pedal-powered railbikes on a 15-mile round-trip route through the Noyo River Canyon from Willits, along with a new mid-century-styled Presidential Class railcar called The Noyo. This fall, the railroad will also partner with Flynn Creek Circus for performances deep in the redwood forest accessible only by rail.

🔗 Read more

Willits Car and Bike Show Draws Hundreds

By Mathew Caine, Willits Weekly · May 28

At least 193 cars and motorcycles participated in the 44th annual Willits Car and Bike Show, held last Sunday along Commercial and Main streets. The event was dedicated to John Yde.

🔗 Read more

🏛️ CALMATTERS

Homelessness Declines in California and Across the Country, New Federal Report Shows

By Marisa Kendall, CalMatters · May 30

Summary: California and the nation saw homelessness decrease for the first time in years, according to a federal report released Friday. California’s homeless population dropped 2.8% to 181,934 people, while the country overall saw a 3.3% decline.

🔗 Read more

California Overhauls Carbon Market — Critics Say It’s a Giveaway to Oil

By Alejandro Lazo, CalMatters · May 29

Summary: California regulators approved a controversial overhaul of the state’s carbon market on Friday that could direct billions of dollars in free pollution permits to oil refineries and other major polluters. The changes, backed by Gov. Newsom’s administration amid rising gas prices and refinery closures, are expected to reduce state climate program funding from $4 billion to $2 billion annually.

🔗 Read more

🌱 MENDOCINO COUNTY

A Meadow Beneath the Water Vanishes, and With It, the Foundation of an Ecosystem
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
The eelgrass beds of the Albion River Estuary have mysteriously disappeared, signaling a potential larger crisis along the Northern California coast. These underwater meadows—which serve as nurseries for salmon and crab, buffer against ocean acidification, and sequester carbon 40 times faster than forests—have been vanishing worldwide at an alarming rate.
🔗 Read More

29-Year-Old Arson Suspect Arrested in Cloverdale After Setting Fire While Fleeing Police
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
Luke Deramo, 29, was arrested Tuesday in Cloverdale on multiple felony arson-related charges after allegedly setting a series of small fires in the area. The transient suspect, who has a prior 2025 arson conviction in Mendocino County, was apprehended following a large-scale search after he allegedly climbed into a woman’s truck, vandalized it with a rock, and fled into nearby brush.
🔗 Read More

🚔 COVELO

Arrest Made in Hit-and-Run Death of Former Covelo Fire Chief Bill Baker
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
A 21-year-old woman has been arrested in connection with the hit-and-run death of former Covelo Fire Chief Bill Baker, who was struck and killed last fall after being dropped off by a hospital transport service.
🔗 Read More

🏡 ELK

Sacred Rock Inn Enters Escrow
By Kat Gleason, Independent Coast Observer
The Sacred Rock Inn in Elk, which abruptly closed a year ago, is in escrow. Brendan Carlin of Ascendant Hospitality Ventures is the potential new owner.
🔗 Read More (Subscription required. Single copies available for purchase in Elk and Gualala or for free at the library.)

💰 FORT BRAGG

Fort Bragg’s Real Estate Boom: $13.1 Million Boatyard Center Sale Signals New Investment Wave
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
Fort Bragg is experiencing a rare surge of private investment as iconic businesses and properties change hands. The Boatyard Center sold for $13.1 million to Argonaut Investments, while other major sales include the Grey Whale Inn, Chapel by the Sea, and the historic Well House West.
🔗 Read More

Fort Bragg Launches First-Year Business Fee Waiver Program
City of Fort Bragg
The City Council approved a new program waiving fees for new businesses during their first year of operation in an effort to fill vacant commercial spaces and encourage entrepreneurship.
🔗 Read More

City of Fort Bragg Launches Summer Internship Program for Youth
City of Fort Bragg
The City of Fort Bragg is seeking 5 to 7 paid interns, ages 15 and older, to work in various city departments from June 15 through August 7. Interns will earn $17 per hour during the eight-week program.
🔗 Read More

💵 GUALALA

GCC May Have to Turn Down Million-Dollar Grant
By Kat Gleason, Independent Coast Observer
Prevailing wage requirements attached to a million-dollar USDA grant could increase the cost of rebuilding the Gualala Community Center by 16 percent.
🔗 Read More (Subscription required. Single copies available for purchase in Elk and Gualala or for free at your local library.)

🚗 LAYTONVILLE

Driver Sentenced to 76 Months for Cannabis-Impaired Crash Killing Laytonville Woman
By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice
Justino Faenzi-Glass, 44, of Santa Rosa, was sentenced to 76 months in state prison for causing a head-on collision that killed Sally Teegarden in 2025 while impaired by cannabis.
🔗 Read More

🎶 NAVARRO

Second Annual Navarro-by-the-Sea Day Celebrates Historic Inn and Coastal Community
By Carole Brodsky, Ukiah Daily Journal
MendoParks is hosting the Second Annual Navarro-by-the-Sea Day on June 6 at the restored Captain Fletcher’s Inn in Navarro River Redwoods State Park. The free event will feature live music, tours, food, and raffles supporting continued restoration work. Organizers also announced plans to reopen Captain Fletcher’s as a state park visitor center and coffeehouse.
🔗 Read More

🚧 POINT ARENA

Point Arena Seeks to Coordinate Sewer Replacement and Caltrans Projects
By Chelsea Randall, Independent Coast Observer
The Point Arena City Council voted to delay a decision on a Caltrans project for 60 days while engineers continue work on the city’s sewer system replacement plans. Caltrans warned additional delays could jeopardize the project timeline.
🔗 Read More

💧 POTTER VALLEY

Southern California Water Agency Confirms It’s Exploring Potter Valley Project Acquisition
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
The Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District confirmed it is evaluating a possible acquisition of the Potter Valley Project, the century-old infrastructure system diverting water from the Eel River into the Russian River watershed. The agency said no decisions have been made but acknowledged ongoing discussions and information gathering.
🔗 Read More

📊 UKIAH

Ukiah City Council Discusses Annexation Challenges as County Releases Financial Impact Analysis
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal
Ukiah officials continue grappling with the city’s proposed annexation plan as Mendocino County released a preliminary financial analysis projecting rising long-term costs tied to staffing, road funding losses, and tax changes.
🔗 Read More (Subscription required)

Ukiah City Council Takes Aim at ‘Nuisance’ Parking Lots
By Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice
The Ukiah City Council unanimously adopted a new ordinance reforming off-street parking requirements and targeting vacant parking lots considered public nuisances.
🔗 Read More

One Drunk Encounter, One Broken System — The Politics and NIMBY Pressure Keeping Treatment Centers Out
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
A recent Ukiah arrest serves as the backdrop for a broader look at California’s failure to replace shuttered mental hospitals with local treatment centers, leaving police, emergency rooms, and jails to manage addiction and mental illness crises.
🔗 Read More

Fire Crews Quickly Contain Ukiah Wildfire Sparked by Mobile Home
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
Firefighters stopped a wildfire west of Ukiah Tuesday night after a burning house trailer ignited nearby vegetation along Low Gap Road. Crews contained the fire to less than 0.2 acre.
🔗 Read More

Ukiah Natural Foods Co-op Board Issues Statement
By Roger Coryell, The Mendocino Voice
The Ukiah Natural Foods Co-op board issued its first public statement after a worker walkout disrupted operations. The board declined to discuss personnel matters but affirmed its “determination to move this organization forward and create something strong enough to serve this community for decades to come.”
🔗 Read More

Medium Art Center Celebrates Five Years of Community Connection
By Carole Brodsky, Ukiah Daily Journal
Medium Art Center is celebrating five years of arts programming, youth exhibits, workshops, and community events in Mendocino County. The organization has grown from a pandemic-era idea into a major local cultural hub.
🔗 Read More (Subscription required)

🎬 VILLAGE OF MENDOCINO

The 19th Annual Mendocino Film Festival Returns
By Alessandra Rizzo, The Mendocino Voice
The Mendocino Film Festival returns May 28–31 with 80 films from 35 countries, including environmental documentaries, Sundance selections, and local productions focused on kelp forest decline.
🔗 Read More

🍻 WILLITS

Willits City Council Approves Downtown Entertainment Zone, Rejects Catastrophic Leave Policy
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
The Willits City Council approved a new downtown entertainment zone allowing alcoholic beverages during permitted events in designated downtown areas between noon and 9 p.m.
🔗 Read More

Ex-Willits Hospital Worker Found Guilty of Spiking Drink, Sex Assault Charges
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A Mendocino County jury convicted former respiratory therapist Matthew Ryan Mayo of sexually assaulting a colleague after secretly drugging her beer with zolpidem in 2020.
🔗 Read More

Brooktrails Fire Fundraiser
By Mathew Caine, Willits Weekly
Thirty-two golfers gathered for a fundraiser benefiting the Brooktrails Fire Department. Proceeds will help purchase a new rescue tool used to free crash victims from vehicles.
🔗 Read More

🏛️ CALIFORNIA

Newsom Signs AI Executive Order to Study Worker Protections Amid Tech Layoffs
By Khari Johnson, CalMatters
Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order directing state agencies to study ways to reduce job losses caused by artificial intelligence, including retraining programs and severance protections.
🔗 Read More

California Moves to Make Cheaper E85 Fuel More Accessible to Drivers
By Alejandro Lazo and Yue Stella Yu, CalMatters
California lawmakers advanced legislation making it easier for drivers to convert vehicles to run on E85 ethanol fuel, potentially lowering fuel costs amid high gas prices.
🔗 Read More

California to Share Immigrant Driver Data with National Database
By Khari Johnson and Wendy Fry, CalMatters
California is preparing to share detailed driver’s license information—including data on more than 1 million unauthorized immigrants—with the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators to comply with the Real ID Act.
🔗 Read More

💰 MENDOCINO COUNTY

County Projects Balanced Budget with Reduced Reliance on One-Time Funds

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Mendocino County’s fiscal outlook has improved significantly, with the general fund now projected at $100 million — roughly $5.4 million higher than anticipated.
🔗 Read More

Proposed Ukiah Annexation Could Cost County Up to $27 Million

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A preliminary analysis estimates the proposed City of Ukiah annexation could reduce county revenues by as much as $27 million over 16 years, largely through lost sales tax revenue.
🔗 Read More

County Overhauls Cannabis Tax System

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Supervisors voted 3-2 to forgive millions in delinquent cannabis taxes and eliminate controversial “true-up” minimum payments that growers argued created crushing tax rates of 50 to 100% of revenue.
🔗 Read More

Sheriff Warns of Staffing Shortages and Safety Risks

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Sheriff Matt Kendall warned that severe staffing shortages are creating dangerous working conditions and reducing backup coverage for deputies in the field.
🔗 Read More

Supervisors Cancel Solar Project After Financial Review

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
The Board of Supervisors unanimously canceled a solar contract with Ameresco after concluding the project would lose money instead of generating savings.
🔗 Read More

🌱 ANDERSON VALLEY

Human Trafficking Arrest Linked to Illegal Cannabis Operation

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A Navarro man is under investigation after deputies uncovered an alleged forced-labor trafficking operation tied to an illegal cannabis grow on Sea Biscuit Drive.
🔗 Read More

🕊️ CASPAR

Memorial Planned for Norm de Vall

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Community members will gather May 22 at the Caspar Community Center to remember former Supervisor Norman de Vall, a longtime advocate for worker rights, environmental protections, and public participation in county government.
🔗 Read More

🌋 COVELO

3.5-Magnitude Earthquake Recorded Near Covelo

The Mendocino Voice
A shallow 3.5 earthquake struck east-northeast of Covelo on May 8, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
🔗 Read More

Deputies Arrest Covelo Man for Alleged Arson

By Katy St. Clair, The Mendocino Voice
A Covelo resident was arrested on suspicion of felony arson after allegedly setting a vehicle on fire near Highway 162.
🔗 Read More

☣️ FORT BRAGG

How Toxic Is the Fort Bragg Mill Site?

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A new review of the former Georgia-Pacific mill site identified significant unanswered environmental questions despite regulators granting large portions of the property “No Further Action” status.
🔗 Read More

Fort Bragg Police Settle Federal Civil Rights Lawsuit

By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
The Fort Bragg Police Department settled a federal lawsuit while also facing staffing changes and a legal claim from former Police Chief John Naulty.
🔗 Read More

Stanley Creek Renamed to Honor Tribal Leader and WWII Veteran

The Anderson Valley Advertiser
A stream south of Fort Bragg will officially be renamed Stanley Creek in honor of Clyde Stanley, a Pomo tribal leader, WWII veteran, and longtime mill worker.
🔗 Read more (subscription to the AVA required)

🌼 LAYTONVILLE

Second Sunday Market Celebrates Mother’s Day

By Lin Due, The Mendocino Voice
Laytonville’s community market returns with local vendors offering handmade crafts, practical goods, and budget-friendly finds.
🔗 Read More

🚓 Break-In Leads to Arrest

By Gabe Agcaoili, Bay City News/The Mendocino Voice
Deputies arrested a Willits man after responding to a reported burglary at a commercial property along Highway 101.
🔗 Read More

📚 POINT ARENA

Kashia Elementary Likely to Shut Down

By Kat Gleason, Independent Coast Observer
The California Department of Education is expected to close Kashia Elementary this fall due to declining enrollment. The school primarily serves Pomo children in Stewarts Point Rancheria. It is a feeder to Point Arena High School.
🔗 Read more (subscription to the ICO required)

Commercial Salmon Fishing Reopens

By Alessandra Rizzo, The Mendocino Voice
Commercial salmon fishing has resumed from San Francisco to Point Arena for the first time since 2022, though Fort Bragg’s fishery remains closed.
🔗 Read More

🏡 THE SEA RANCH

Remembering Architect Donlyn Lyndon

By Andrea Lunsford and Christine Kreyling, Independent Coast Observer
Donlyn Lyndon, one of the founding architects of The Sea Ranch, died April 5 at age 90. His work helped define the iconic coastal development’s design philosophy.
🔗 Read more (subscription to the ICO required)

🥬 UKIAH

Missing Ukiah Man Found Dead Near Low Gap Park

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Joshua W. Retallick, a Ukiah resident reported missing in April, has been found dead near Low Gap Park.
🔗 Read More

Ukiah Co-op Faces Questions Over Hiring Practices

By Roger Coryell, The Mendocino Voice
A controversy surrounding the hiring of a former Ukiah Natural Foods Co-op manager has sparked broader questions about oversight.
🔗 Read More

🛂 WILLITS

Federal Immigration Dragnet Expands

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A Willits soccer coach with protected immigration status was arrested by federal agents, raising concerns among advocates and community members.
🔗 Read More

Railcoasters and Highball Express Debut

By Mathew Caine, Willits Weekly
Mendocino Railway launched new railbike experiences and a seasonal “bar train” departing from Willits.
🔗 Read more

First Friday Concert Series Begins

By Mathew Caine, Willits Weekly
Willits kicked off its summer concert series with live music downtown, with additional performances planned throughout the season.
🔗 Read more

🏛️ CALMATTERS

Did California’s Hotels-to-Housing Program Work?

By Lauren Hepler and Marisa Kendall, CalMatters
A major investigation found California’s Homekey program housed thousands but also left many promised housing units unfinished or still temporary.
🔗 Read More

How California’s Next Governor Plans to Address Homelessness

By Marisa Kendall, CalMatters
Leading gubernatorial candidates outlined competing approaches to homelessness, mental health, and housing policy.
🔗 Read More

Transfer Taxes Face Statewide Ballot Challenge

By Ben Christopher, CalMatters
A new statewide initiative would limit local real estate transfer taxes, targeting Los Angeles’ controversial “mansion tax.”
🔗 Read More

🗳️ MENDOCINO COUNTY

Mail Ballots to Reach Mendocino County Voters Starting May 4
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Official ballots for California’s June 2, 2026 primary will be mailed beginning May 4. Delivery is expected within 5–7 days, with in-person ballots available in Ukiah. The voter registration deadline is May 18. Poll workers are still needed, with stipends of $70–$80.
🔗 Read more

Hundreds of Mendocino Coast Homes Face Sea Level Rise Threat, Study Finds
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A new study projects vulnerable coastal residences could jump from 55 today to 710 by 2100. Bluff erosion—exceeding 10 feet per year in some areas—is the primary threat.
🔗 Read more

Hung Jury in Mendocino DUI Trial
Mendocino County District Attorney
A mistrial was declared after jurors failed to reach a verdict in a DUI case against an Orange County man. A retrial is set for May 18 in Ukiah.
🔗 Read more

🔥 COVELO

3.3 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Near Covelo
Pete Young, The Mendocino Voice
A minor quake hit east of Covelo on May 2 at a shallow depth of 3.5 miles.
🔗 Read more

Four CAL FIRE Firefighters Injured in Prescribed Burn
Kym Kemp, Redheaded Blackbelt
Four firefighters suffered burns during a proactive vegetation burn. All were treated and released with non-serious injuries.
🔗 Read more

🚂 FORT BRAGG

Skunk Train Eyes Company Store Purchase
Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
The historic Union Lumber Company Store may soon be acquired by the Skunk Train operator.
🔗 Read more

Water Main Break Disrupts Businesses
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A break behind the Company Store briefly cut water service to nearby businesses.
🔗 Read more

Grocery Outlet Construction Resumes
Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
Work is back underway on Fort Bragg’s Grocery Outlet, with an April 2027 opening target.
🔗 Read more

Gray Whale Die-Off Continues
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A dead gray whale found near Virgin Creek marks the county’s first recorded death this year amid ongoing West Coast die-offs linked to food shortages.
🔗 Read more

🚨 GUALALA

FBI Raid Leads to Federal Charge Over Online Threat
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A Gualala retiree faces federal charges tied to a private Facebook post criticizing a state legislator.
🔗 Read more

Deadline Looming for GCC Board Candidates
Kat Gleason, Independent Coast Observer (ICO subscription required)
Candidates for the Gualala Community Center board must file by May 5; eligibility requires 90 days of membership.
🔗 Read more

🌿 LAYTONVILLE

District 3 Supervisor Candidates Debate in Laytonville
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Candidates Eric Hart, Clay Romero, and Buffy Wright Bourassa addressed economic decline, infrastructure, and taxes at an April 29 forum.
🔗 Read more

Weathertop Nursery Reopens Under New Ownership
Lin Due, The Mendocino Voice
The longtime nursery returns as Weathertop Farmstead, offering plants, soil, and locally grown produce.
🔗 Read more

📷 POINT ARENA

FLOCK Camera Raises Privacy Questions
Chelsea Randall, Independent Coast Observer (ICO subscription required)
A new license plate reader installed by the Sheriff’s Office is prompting concerns over surveillance and data use.
🔗 Read more (Subscripton required)

💧 POTTER VALLEY

Speculation Over SoCal Interest in Potter Valley Project
Roger Coryell, The Mendocino Voice
Could a Southern California water district may be eyeing the project for pumped hydroelectric storage?
🔗 Read more

Huffman Demands Answers on Water Transfer Plans
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Rep. Jared Huffman is seeking clarification on a proposal that could divert water from the Eel River to SoCal.
🔗 Read more

🚒 REDWOOD VALLEY

Tomki Road Clearing Aims to Prevent Evacuation Disasters
Sarah Reith, The Mendocino Voice
A new Fire Safe Council is working to improve evacuation routes nearly a decade after the Redwood Complex Fire.
🔗 Read more

🚴 UKIAH

Former Ukiah High Teacher Pleads Not Guilty
Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice
Matt LaFever, a former high school teacher and journalist, faces a misdemeanor charge involving a minor.
🔗 Read more

New Great Redwood Trail Segment Opens
Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice
A 3.3-mile trail extension now connects neighborhoods across Ukiah.
🔗 Read more

Ukiah Co-op Walkout Signals Staff–Board Rift
John Sakowicz, Anderson Valley Advertiser (AVA subscription required)
Workers staged a walkout over concerns about the hiring process for a new general manager.
🔗 Read more

Teen’s 911 Call Leads to Arrest in Domestic Violence Case
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A Ukiah man faces multiple felony charges after a domestic violence incident witnessed by children.
🔗 Reaad more

🥁 WILLITS

Federal Arrest Triggers Community Response
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A federal arrest prompted rapid mobilization by local advocates; details remain limited.
🔗 Read more

Willits Delays Consultant Vote, Approves HR Contract
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
The council postponed one contract amid conflict concerns but approved another despite objections.
🔗 Read more

Senegalese Drum Gifted to Mendocino Art Center
Savana Robinson, The Mendocino Voice
A traditional drum crafted at Ridgewood Ranch was presented following a cultural workshop.
🔗 Read more

Grateful Sundae Honors Conservation Corps
Mathew Caine, Willits Weekly
Volunteers were recognized for 1,800 hours of service with a community ice cream social.
🔗 Read more

🏛️ CALIFORNIA

Congressional Races Could Decide House Control
Maya C. Miller, CalMatters
California’s districts are emerging as key battlegrounds in the fight for control of the U.S. House.
🔗 Read more

Hospice Fraud Schemes Target California Seniors
Ana B. Ibarra, CalMatters
A growing wave of fraudulent hospice providers is costing millions and endangering vulnerable patients.
🔗 Read more

🏠 MENDOCINO COUNTY

Judicial Race: Pekin vs. Friend for Superior Court Seat
By Linda Little, MendocinoCoast.News
Voters will decide a rare contested judicial race June 2 between Judge Patrick M. Pekin and attorney Colby J. Friend. Candidate responses highlight issues including jury shortages, courthouse access, and transparency.
🔗 Read more

Short-Term Rental Permit Denied
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
The Mendocino County Planning Commission unanimously denied a permit near Ukiah over septic and safety concerns, despite staff recommending approval.
🔗 Read more

Redwood Forest Expansion Announced
By Save the Redwoods League
A 453-acre donation will expand Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve by 16%, protecting habitat for endangered salmon.
🔗 Read more

Journalist Recalls FBI Scrutiny
By Mike Geniella, AVA & MendoLocal.News
A veteran reporter recounts a secret FBI memo targeting his work during the timber wars, drawing parallels to current concerns about press freedom.
🔗 Read more

Free Water Tanks Distributed
By Mendocino County Fire Safe Council
Nearly 200 water tanks are being distributed countywide as part of a state drought relief effort to boost rural fire preparedness.
🔗 Read more

Firewood Permits on Sale
By U.S. Forest Service
Permits for personal-use firewood are now available in the Mendocino National Forest, with restrictions on collection and transport.
🔗 Read more

🥖 CASPAR

Caspar Inn Reimagined
By Mandela Linder, The Mendocino Voice
The historic Caspar Inn reopens as a bakery and wine bar under new ownership, blending sourdough and natural wine culture.
🔗 Read more

🐓 BOONVILLE

Barn Sale Beckons with Bargains & Community
By Terry Sites, Anderson Valley Advertiser
A monthly sale offers affordable goods and vintage finds, with proceeds supporting construction of a new church in Elk.
🔗 Read more

🚔 COVELO

Teen Charged in Covelo Homicide
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A 16-year-old suspect has been extradited in connection with the killing of Audrey Card, 38.
🔗 Read more

License Plate Tech Leads to Arrest
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
Police used automated license plate readers to locate and arrest the suspect in Oroville.
🔗 Read more

🌳 FORT BRAGG

Who Owns the Mill Site?
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Records show that the ownership of the former Georgia-Pacific mill site is tied to Mendocino Railway and Sierra Railroad Holdings, a newly formed LLC. Parcels along Pudding Creek continue to belong to Sierra Northern, which is now owned by a private equity firm. Sierra Northern appears to remain a subsidiary of the Sierra Railroad Company, a holding company that previously owned the Mendocino Railway.
🔗 Read more

Bainbridge Park Reopens
By Mary Rose Kaczorowski, The Mendocino Voice
The park reopened after a $2M renovation, after city council declined to address community concerns over environmentally hazardous materials and CEQA compliance.
🔗 Read more

💰 POINT ARENA

City Stabilizes Finances
By Chelsea Randall, The Independent Coast Observer
The city manager said the bankruptcy risk has passed, though a sewer deficit necessitated a rate increase.
🔗 Read more (subscription required)

💧 POTTER VALLEY

No Formal Offer for Potter Valley Project
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal
Pacific Gas and Electric Company says no formal offer has been made to take over the Potter Valley hydroelectric and water diversion project by the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District.
🔗 Read more

Southern California District Shows Interest
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District vice president said the utility is exploring acquiring the Potter Valley Project as part of its long-term water strategy.
🔗 Read more

Federal Official Cites Potential Buyer of Potter Valley Project, Sparking Local Concerns
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Report of a potential buyer drew backlash from Jared Huffman and local stakeholders.
🔗 Read more

🐍 REDWOOD VALLEY

Fatal Snakebite Confirmed
By Katy St. Clair, The Mendocino Voice
A 78-year-old woman died after multiple snake bites; the death was ruled accidental.
🔗 Read more

🎨 UKIAH

City Releases New Annexation Map
By City of Ukiah
A revised “Sapling” annexation proposal updates city boundaries; a public workshop is set for April 30.
🔗 Read more

Student Art Show Explores AI
By Laura Fogg, Ukiah Daily Journal
Ukiah students blend photography and AI in a new exhibit at Art Center Ukiah.
🔗 Read more (subscription required)

🎬 VILLAGE OF MENDOCINO

Film Festival Breaks Records
The Mendocino Film Festival returns May 28–31 with 80 films, including a record number directed by women and multiple Sundance selections.
🔗 Read more

🗳️ WILLITS

Supervisor Forum Draws Crowd
By Jennifer Poole, Willits Weekly
An estimated 160 residents attended a District 3 candidate forum.
🔗 Read more

Town Hall with Mike McGuire
By Mathew Caine, Willits Weekly
About 170 residents gathered for a town hall with State Senator Mike McGuire, who is running to represent voters in the new congressional district created by redistricting.
🔗 Read more

🏛️ CALIFORNIA

Voter ID Measure Heads to Ballot
By Nadia Lathan, CalMatters
A GOP-backed initiative requiring proof of citizenship has qualified for the November ballot.
🔗 Read more

Pension Outlook Improves
By Adam Ashton, CalMatters
California’s pension burden shows early signs of easing after years of rising costs.
🔗 Read more

🥕 MENDOCINO COUNTY

Mendo Food Network Launches Search for New Executive Director
By Mendo Food Network
The Mendo Food Network has launched a search for a new executive director to lead efforts to expand equitable access to healthy food across the county. Officials say they are seeking a strategic, mission-driven leader to build on existing partnerships and guide the organization’s next phase of growth.
🔗 Read more

Mendocino County Voter Rolls Show Shift Toward Conservative Parties
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
An analysis of voter registration data shows a shift in Mendocino County’s political landscape between 2020 and 2024. Republican registration rose 12% to 12,561 voters, while Democratic registration declined 4% to 25,338. The American Independent Party saw a 36% increase, contributing to an overall 4% shift toward more conservative affiliations.
🔗 Read more

Mendocino County Advances Plans for Eastern Ukiah Evacuation Route
By Mendocino County Fire Safe Council
Plans are moving forward for a new evacuation route serving more than 300 homes in eastern Ukiah, including Deerwood Estates, El Dorado Estates, Vichy Springs, and Guidiville Rancheria. Officials recently presented initial concepts for the proposed 4.5-mile route.
🔗 Read more

MendoParks Awarded $30,000 Grant for Beach and Trail Accessibility Equipment
By Carole Brodsky, Ukiah Daily Journal
MendoParks received funding to purchase accessibility equipment, including motorized track systems and portable access mats, to help people with mobility challenges safely reach beaches and trails. (subscription required)
🔗 Read more

AIM 500 Miles Spirit Runners Head to Jackson Forest Sunday
Mendo Voice Staff, The Mendocino Voice
The public is invited to join the AIM 500 Mile Spirit Runners on April 12 at Camp One in Jackson Demonstration State Forest. The annual event supports tribal efforts to protect the forest’s ecosystem.
🔗 Read more

🍇 ANDERSON VALLEY

Concerns Raised Over Understanding of Fairgrounds Board
The Anderson Valley Advertiser
CSD board members expressed concern that the Fairgrounds Board may lack complete information regarding a proposed water project, particularly costs and infrastructure responsibilities. A revised letter will be sent encouraging more collaborative decision-making.
🔗 Read more

📡 ELK

Fiber Optic Cable Installation Proceeds on Philo Greenwood Road
By Susan Wolbarst, The Independent Coast Observer
Work tied to the Middle Mile Broadband Initiative has reached Philo Greenwood Road. The project will proceed in two phases: design and installation. (subscription required)
🔗 Read more

⚠️ FORT BRAGG

Body Found at Todd Point
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
A man’s body was discovered April 11 at Todd Point by a tourist and his son who were fishing nearby.
🔗 Read more

Two Arrested in Fort Bragg Motel Drug, Weapons Bust
Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office
Two men were arrested after a probation check at a Fort Bragg motel uncovered a loaded firearm, suspected narcotics, and evidence of drug sales. A third individual was released without charges.
🔗 Read more

Private Equity Firm Acquires Sierra Railroad Company, Owner of Mendocino Railway
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A New York-based infrastructure investment firm has acquired the Sierra Railroad Company, owner of the Skunk Train. The deal brings new leadership and converts the company to a Delaware corporation.
🔗 Read more

Coast Guard Cutter Alder Completes Buoy Maintenance in Noyo Harbor
By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News
The Coast Guard Cutter Alder completed maintenance on navigation buoys in Noyo Harbor, helping ensure maritime safety by marking hazardous underwater areas.
🔗 Read more

📄 MANCHESTER

Irish Beach Improvement Club Responds to Coastal Commission Violations
By Chelsea Randall, The Independent Coast Observer
The club outlined a plan toward compliance that includes public beach access and a consolidated coastal development permit, which could retroactively address violations. (subscription required)
🔗 Read more

Man Arrested After Alleged Window-Smashing Spree
Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office
A 34-year-old man from Point Arena was arrested April 2 after deputies responded to reports of vehicle windows being smashed with a metal pipe on Rancheria Road.
🔗 Read more

🗑️ UKIAH

Ukiah Man Arrested After Failing to Clear Illegal Encampment
Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office
A 33-year-old man was arrested after failing to remove an illegal encampment and accumulated trash despite repeated warnings.
🔗 Read more

Ukiah Man Arrested for Violating Gang-Related Parole Restrictions
Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office
A 24-year-old man was arrested after allegedly violating parole conditions prohibiting gang affiliation during a compliance search tied to an assault investigation.
🔗 Read more

Ukiah Man Arrested After Failing to Clear Illegal Encampment
Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office
A 33-year-old man was arrested after failing to remove an illegal encampment and accumulated trash despite repeated warnings.
🔗 Read more

⚖️ LaFever Arraigned on Misdemeanor Charge
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Journalist and high school teacher Matthew LaFever was arraigned April 9 on a misdemeanor charge involving alleged inappropriate communications with a minor.
🔗 Read more

🏗️ Supervisors Form Committee to Shape Downtown Ukiah’s Future
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal
County supervisors created an ad hoc committee to explore redevelopment opportunities tied to a new courthouse, including possible relocation of county departments. (subscription required)
🔗 Read more

🌄 WILLITS

District Three Supervisor Candidate Sued for Sexual Harassment, Retaliation
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Candidate Russell Green is facing a lawsuit alleging sexual harassment, retaliation, and whistleblower violations tied to his cannabis business.
🔗 Read more

Flock Together Festival Returns to Ridgewood Ranch
Mendo Voice Staff, The Mendocino Voice
The annual festival celebrating sheep, farming, and rural life returns April 25 to Ridgewood Ranch.
🔗 Read more

Seasonal Firefighters Return to Mendocino
CAL FIRE, Willits Weekly
CAL FIRE marked the start of peak fire preparedness season with the return of 176 seasonal workers.
🔗 Read more

✈️ CALMATTERS

California’s Green Jet Fuel Plan Could Drain Road Repair Funds
By Alejandro Lazo, CalMatters
Economists warn a proposal to fund sustainable aviation fuel could divert road repair money and raise gas prices while offering limited climate benefits.
🔗 Read more

California Salmon Fishing Set to Reopen After Three-Year Closure
By Rachel Becker, CalMatters
Commercial salmon fishing may resume this spring with strict limits, though long-term threats to fish populations remain.
🔗 Read more

Trump’s Endorsement Disrupts California GOP Convention Strategy
By Nadia Lathan and Maya C. Miller, CalMatters
Donald Trump’s endorsement in the governor’s race has complicated Republican Party strategy amid concerns about his popularity with California voters.
🔗 Read more

Correction: The subheading to this article and the photo caption originally referred to Todd Point as Todd’s Point. In addition, we have corrected a headline to reflect the fact that a Point Arena man was arrested for a crime in Manchester. The headline originally referred to the perpetrator as “Manchester Man.” We regret the errors.

🗳️ Mendocino County

Four Candidates Vie for District 3 Supervisor Seat
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Four candidates—Eric Hart, Buffy Wright Bourassa, Clay Romero, and Russell Green—outlined positions on economic development, roads, county finances, and public safety during a March 26 forum. The forum will be broadcast on KMUD Tuesday, April 7, at 5:30 p.m.
🔗 Read more

County Overhauls Reserve Policy
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Supervisors approved a new reserve structure dividing funds into contingency (5%), rainy day (up to 15%), and infrastructure reserves. About $14 million was reallocated without new spending.
🔗 Read more

Great Redwood Trail Master Plan Approved
Great Redwood Trail Agency, Willits Weekly
After three years of planning, officials approved a roadmap for designing, building, and managing the regional trail project.
🔗 Read more

Courts Launch Juror Compliance Program
Mendocino County Superior Court, Willits Weekly
Starting April 10, residents who ignore jury summons may be required to appear before a judge under a new enforcement calendar.
🔗 Read more

Forest Bill Raises Concerns as JAG Leader Resigns
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
The resignation of Amy Wynn coincides with a proposed state bill that expands forest use but lacks local oversight provisions.
🔗 Read more

Opinion: Sales Tax for Roads Criticized
By Alan Stein, The Mendocino Voice
A resident argues new road taxes are unnecessary, citing high gas taxes and flaws in state funding formulas.
🔗 Read more

Roadwork to Cause Delays Through April 9
Caltrans
Motorists should expect 5–30 minute delays on Highway 1, Route 20, and U.S. 101, especially near Elk and Westport.
🔗 Read more

🚗 Boonville

Fatal Crash Leads to Manslaughter Arrest
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
An 18-year-old passenger died in a suspected DUI crash; the teen driver was arrested and faces manslaughter charges.
🔗 Read more

🌊 Fort Bragg

Stories of Shark Attack Survivors
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Following a recent Fort Bragg attack, survivors describe tactics that helped them live through encounters.
🔗 Read more

Sea Level Rise Threatens Coastal Roads
By Mandela Linder, The Mendocino Voice
Residents are helping prioritize which vulnerable road segments should be studied as climate risks grow.
🔗 Read more

📶 Gualala

Cellphone Service Outages Grow
By Chelsea Randall, Independent Coast Observer
Residents along the Mendocino Coast report increasingly unreliable cellphone service, with some attributing the issues to T-Mobile’s acquisition of USCellular last August.
🔗 Read more (subscription required)

Bottle Redemption Kiosk Sees Heavy Use
By Susan Wolbarst, Independent Coast Observer
A new Bottlebank kiosk in Gualala is processing about 150 bags of CRV containers daily—roughly ten times the volume reported in Santa Rosa, according to staff.
🔗 Read more (subscription required)

🏫 Manchester

119-Year-Old Schoolhouse Gets a Second Chance
By Alessandra Rizzo, The Mendocino Voice
After nearly 50 years vacant, the historic Manchester Schoolhouse—built in 1907 from old-growth redwood and listed on the National Register of Historic Places—has a new owner. This news was originally reported by The Independent Coast Observer.
🔗 Read more

🎨 Point Arena

Community Honors Slain Pomo Woman with Mural
By Chelsea Randall, Independent Coast Observer
Family and community members gathered March 28 to unveil a mural honoring Nicole Florencia Smith, a member of the Manchester-Point Arena Band of Pomo Indians who was murdered in 2017. The case remains unsolved.
🔗 Read more (subscription required)

🌾 Potter Valley

Rogers Addresses Dam Removal Concerns
By Monica Huettl, Anderson Valley Advertiser
Residents voiced concerns about PG&E’s plan to decommission Scott Dam at a packed town hall.
🔗 Read more (subscription required)

🔥 Ukiah

Ukiah Man Arrested After Late-Night Fire
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A man faces arson and prowling charges after a fire near a business; he is scheduled to appear in court Monday on unrelated an misdemeanor charge for another fire.
🔗 Read more

Redwood Credit Union Opening New Branch
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal
A new branch will open April 20 in a renovated former bank building on Perkins Street.
🔗 Read more (subscription required)

The Lot on Main Returns for the Season
By Sydney Fishman, The Mendocino Voice
The popular downtown market resumes April 3 with vendors, music, and community events.
🔗 Read more

Courts Seek Local Photographers for New Courthouse
Mendocino County Superior Court
Residents can submit photos for display in the new Ukiah courthouse; deadline is July 31.
🔗 Read more

🌊 Westport

Seawall Nears Completion, Land Transfer Advances
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
A major seawall project at Blues Beach is wrapping up as a long-delayed land transfer to a tribal nonprofit moves forward.
🔗 Read more

🌲 Willits

Willits Man Arrested After Allegedly Attempting to Meet Teenage Girl
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A 38-year-old man was arrested after allegedly attempting to meet someone he believed to be a 14-year-old girl.
🔗 Read more

🐟 California

State Ends Salmon Restoration Partnership
By Rachel Becker, CalMatters
Funding cuts halt a major tribal-led effort to restore Chinook salmon to the McCloud River.
🔗 Read more

State Considers Insurance for Factory-Built Housing
By Ben Christopher, CalMatters
A proposed bill would have California backstop insurance for modular housing to boost construction.
🔗 Read more

Green-card Holders Lose Access to SBA Loans
By Levi Sumagaysay, CalMatters
Green-card holders are no longer eligible for SBA loans, impacting a large share of California entrepreneurs.
🔗 Read more

🌲 MENDOCINO COUNTY

A Different Kind of Harvest: Can California’s Forests Grow Jobs, Too?

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
California Assemblymember Chris Rogers’ AB 2494 would shift state forest management toward biodiversity, fire resilience, and climate goals—away from traditional timber extraction. The Mendocino County Board of Supervisors backed the bill in a 3–2 vote, with Supervisors Bernie Norvell and Madeline Cline dissenting.
🔗 Read more

County Moves Forward With New Noise Rules

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Supervisors unanimously advanced a new ordinance setting decibel limits for nighttime noise in unincorporated areas, aiming to give enforcement “teeth.”
🔗 Read more

County Adopts First Air Toxics Report

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Officials approved the county’s first state-mandated Air Toxics “Hot Spots” report under AB 2588. The analysis found no areas with high health risks.
🔗 Read more

New Financing Tools Approved for Infrastructure

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
The county joined a statewide financing program allowing developers to fund roads, sewer systems, and fees through tax-exempt bonds. Property owners repay via assessments, with limited county risk.
🔗 Read more

Roads Crumbling Amid Funding Gap

By Sydney Fishman, The Mendocino Voice
With just $5–10 million annually for road maintenance, the county lags far behind urban counterparts. Supervisors are now advancing a proposed 1-cent sales tax for the November ballot.
🔗 Read more

Russell Green Enters District 3 Race

By Sydney Fishman, The Mendocino Voice
Dispensary owner and software developer Russell Green has announced a run for the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors District 3 seat.
🔗 Read more

DUI Conviction in Mill Creek Crash

Mendocino County District Attorney’s Office
A Ukiah man was convicted of misdemeanor DUI following a 2024 crash on Mill Creek Road in Talmage.
🔗 Read more

✊ FORT BRAGG

No Kings Day Draws Large Crowd

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
An estimated 1,500 people gathered in Fort Bragg for a peaceful protest organized by Indivisible Mendocino Coast—equal to roughly 20% of the city’s population.
🔗 Read more

Rail Rulings Weaken State Oversight

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Federal decisions are undercutting California’s regulatory authority over Mendocino Railway at the former Georgia-Pacific mill site ahead of an April 15 settlement conference.
🔗 Read more

Grey Whale Inn Reopens

By Mandela Linder, The Mendocino Voice
A historic Fort Bragg landmark has reopened following renovations, with more restoration still underway.
🔗 Read more

Avian Flu Detected at Point Reyes

By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News
A dead murre tested positive for avian flu, raising concerns as migratory birds move north. Officials say no spread has been detected in nearby marine mammal populations.
🔗 Read more

🪖 POINT ARENA

Veterans Monument Installation Begins

By Chelsea Randall, Independent Coast Observer
Six basalt columns have arrived for installation at the Point Arena Lighthouse as part of a new coastal veterans monument.
🔗 Read more (Subscription required)

🐎 Healing Through Horses

By Kat Gleason, Independent Coast Observer
A Point Arena practitioner is using hippotherapy to support patients with neurological and physical challenges.
🔗 Read more (Subscription required)

🌄 UKIAH

Rangeland Rezoned Near Ukiah

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Supervisors approved rezoning 160+ acres east of Ukiah to allow limited residential division for estate planning by longtime owner Jared Carter.
🔗 Read more

Teen Hunter Injured in Accident

By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
A 15-year-old was airlifted after accidentally shooting himself while hunting west of Ukiah. He is reported in stable condition.
🔗 Read more

Carousel Lane Parcel Back for Review

Ukiah Daily Journal
The City Council will revisit a tax-sharing agreement tied to annexation of a city-owned parcel at a special meet amid conflict-of-interest concerns. (Subscription required)
🔗 Read more

Dragon’s Lair Demolition Planned

By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal
Mendocino College will demolish the former Dragon’s Lair building next month to make way for student housing. (Subscription required)
🔗 Read more

Police Warn of Phone System Delays

Ukiah Police Department
Ukiah police warned system upgrade could cause intermittent outages and delays.
🔗 Read more

DUI Conviction in Mill Creek Crash

Mendocino County District Attorney’s Office
A Ukiah man was convicted of misdemeanor DUI following a 2024 crash on Mill Creek Road in Talmage.
🔗 Read more

🚰 VILLAGE OF MENDOCINO

Water Project Faces Delays, Scrutiny

By Mark Scaramella, Anderson Valley Advertiser
A long-planned water storage project has grown increasingly complex, drawing concerns about transparency and governance.
🔗 Read more (Subscription required)

Dog “Mayor” Campaign Raises Funds

By Lin Due, The Mendocino Voice
A 120-pound malamute named Bodhi is “running for mayor” in a playful fundraiser for local dog parks and the community center.
🔗 Read more

🥃 WILLITS

Spirits Fundraiser Supports the Arts

By Mathew Caine, Willits Weekly
Mendocino Spirits supported a fundraiser benefiting the Willits Center for the Arts.
🔗 Read more

🏛️ CALIFORNIA

Lawmakers Move to Fix Environmental Loophole

By Alejandra Reyes-Velarde, CalMatters
A budget deal inadvertently exempted some industrial facilities from environmental review. Legislators are now working to close the gap.
🔗 Read more

Tech Giants Spend Big on Politics

By Jeremia Kimelman, CalMatters
Major tech firms spent over $39 million influencing California politics ahead of the 2026 election cycle, with Meta leading the way.
🔗 Read more

🏛️ MENDOCINO COUNTY

What’s Going On With the DA’s Office Relo?
By Mark Scaramella, Anderson Valley Advertiser (subscription required)
Supervisor Maureen Mulheren is reportedly holding closed-door talks with Ukiah officials about relocating both the county library and District Attorney’s office near the new courthouse. The lack of transparency—and whether key department heads are even involved—raises concerns about potential high-cost real estate decisions.
🔗 Read more

Six Years Later: What Has Actually Changed?
By Mazie Malone, Anderson Valley Advertiser (subscription required)
A local mother reflects on navigating psychiatric crisis care from 2020 to 2026. Despite new programs and funding, she says the system remains deeply broken for families in crisis.
🔗Read more

Scam Targets Families of Jail Inmates, Sheriff Warns
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Authorities warn of a scam in which a caller posing as “Deputy Green” demands thousands of dollars in exchange for the release of an incarcerated relative.
🔗Read more

🍺 BOONVILLE

There’s a New Beer in Boonville
By Terry Sites , Anderson Valley Advertiser (subscription required)
Anderson Valley Brewing debuts “Koji Lager,” a sake-inspired beer brewed with koji mold. The brewery is also rolling out deep-dish pizza, and a slate of events including a May 2 Brew Fest.
🔗Read more

🚴 FORT BRAGG

Railbike Guides Help Rescue Missing 71-Year-Old Woman
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Railbike tour guides helped locate and rescue a missing Upper Lake woman in a remote area near Chamberlain Creek after her vehicle was found parked for several days.
🔗Read more

Missing Man’s Truck Found in San Francisco
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
The truck belonging to missing Fort Bragg resident Lane Rider has been recovered in San Francisco, but the search for him continues. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward.
🔗Read more

🔥 MANCHESTER

Fire Destroys Home of Local Postmistress
By Karen Elowitt, Independent Coast Observer (subscription required)
A Sunday morning fire destroyed the home of Manchester’s postmistress, leaving her injured and homeless. Community members are also helping search for her missing dogs.
🔗Read more

🦓 POINT ARENA

B. Bryan Preserve Ranked Top Safari Destination
By Chelsea Randall, Independent Coast Observer (subscription required)
The Point Arena preserve ranked No. 7 in USA Today’s 2026 safari park list and welcomed a Somali wild ass—one of the rarest equids on Earth.
🔗Read more

Juveniles Caught on Camera in Dispensary Break-In
By Kat Gleason, Independent Coast Observer (subscription required)
Two juveniles were recorded on video smashing the window of a Point Arena dispensary and stealing thousands in merchandise. One suspect has been arrested.
🔗Read more

🚒 REDWOOD VALLEY

Fire Chief Departs After Five Months
Ukiah Daily Journal (subscription required)
The Redwood Valley–Calpella Fire District’s chief is out after a short tenure, citing management differences. An interim chief has been appointed as a search begins.
🔗Read more

🎓 UKIAH

Ukiah High to Search for New Principal
Ukiah Daily Journal
The high school will begin a leadership search as its current principal departs for opportunities in Southern California.
🔗Read more

🦈 VILLAGE OF MENDOCINO

Shark Attack at Big River Beach
By Linda Little, MendocinoCoast.News
A local teacher suffered ankle injuries in a shark bite incident Wednesday afternoon. Bystanders provided immediate aid at the scene.
🔗Read more

💰WILLITS

Finance Director Details Years of Fiscal Chaos
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Willits’ finance director describes years of accounting failures, outdated systems, and workplace dysfunction that led to a fiscal emergency.
🔗Read more

Woman Jumps From Window to Escape Alleged Attack
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A 72-year-old woman escaped a violent assault by jumping from a window and crawling to safety. A Willits man faces multiple felony charges, including attempted murder.
🔗Read more

Two Arrested After Gunfire and Standoff Near Willits
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Deputies responding to reports of gunfire and a man yelling threats engaged in a two-hour standoff before arresting two suspects.
🔗Read more

Willits Man Gets 10½ Years in Federal Case
By Sarah Stierch, Mendocino Voice
A Willits man was sentenced to more than a decade in prison for attempting to arrange sex with a child and distributing explicit material.
🔗Read more

Mendo College Mixer Raises $15K
By Mathew Caine, Willits Weekly
A local fundraiser will support a dual-enrollment summer program, helping high school students earn college credit.
🔗 Read more

⛽ CALIFORNIA

Gas Prices Surge as Democrats Pitch Relief Plans
By Jeanne Kuang & Alejandro Lazo, CalMatters
With gas prices topping $5.99, California Democrats are proposing tax and regulatory relief as part of the governor’s race debate.
🔗Read more

Farmworker Pay Fight Highlights Labor Shortage
By Sergio Olmos & Wendy Fry, CalMatters
Federal officials acknowledged a shortage of domestic farm labor while defending a proposal to cut wages for H-2A workers. The United Farm Workers has filed suit.
🔗Read more

Local Office Candidate Update: June 2026 Ballot Shaping Up
By Mark Scaramella, Anderson Valley Advertiser
The June 2026 ballot is taking shape with several notable developments. Assistant Assessor Tonya Mounts is running unopposed to replace retiring Assessor-Clerk-Recorder Katrina Bartolomie. The county has also completed the “deconsolidation” of the Auditor-Controller/Treasurer-Tax Collector office. Megan Hunter is the sole candidate for Auditor-Controller, while current officeholder Chamise Cubbison is running for the newly recreated Treasurer-Tax Collector position.
The Third District Supervisor race includes Russell Green, Buffey Wright-Bourassa, Clay Romero, and Eric Hart. In the Fifth District, incumbent Ted Williams faces Kevin Evans and Todd Lyly.
🔗 Read more

💰 Proposed Sales Tax Pits County Residents and Businesses Against Residents of Incorporated Cities
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.news
The Mendocino County Board of Supervisors voted to place a 1-cent sales tax measure on the November ballot that would generate an estimated $5–6 million annually for road maintenance in unincorporated areas of the county. The measure is sparking debates over fairness and which roads get repaired.
🔗 Read more

🌲 California Attorney General Challenges Federal Forest Plan; Local Panel Planned
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.news
California Attorney General Rob Bonta has joined eight other states opposing a federal proposal that would cut public comment periods by more than half and eliminate neutral review of national forest decisions. The coalition argues the rule would weaken transparency in the management of California’s 20 million acres of national forests.
Locally, the Mendocino County Vision Workgroup and the League of Women Voters will host a March 19 panel on Assembly Bill 2494 and the future of Jackson Demonstration State Forest.
🔗 Read more

🌉 Caspar

🚗 Three-Vehicle Collision Closes Caspar Creek Bridge for Hours
By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
A three-vehicle crash on Highway 1 at Caspar Creek Bridge shut down traffic Monday afternoon. Authorities say a white sedan attempting to pass traffic struck a pickup truck before colliding with a Pacific Towing tow truck. The sedan and tow truck remained stuck together for several hours, leaving the highway blocked during the response.
🔗 Read more

🐟 Gualala

New Culvert Could Reopen China Gulch Salmon Habitat
By Elise Cox, Independent Coast Observer
The Gualala Municipal Advisory Council unanimously recommended approval of a coastal permit for the China Gulch emergency culvert replacement project. Caltrans says the project would restore fish passage that has been blocked for decades, reopening upstream spawning habitat for salmon.
🔗 Read more

🚧 Hopland

Hopland ADA Improvement Project Begins
Caltrans
Caltrans has begun work on an $11.2 million project to upgrade curb ramps, sidewalks, and driveways in Hopland to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Hopland Public Utilities District cited the project when it voted last year to triple water rates.
🔗 Read more

🏫 Point Arena

Point Arena Advances Windy Hollow Road Rehabilitation
By Chelsea Randall, Independent Coast Observer
The Point Arena City Council approved a professional services agreement with engineering firm Lumos & Associates to complete design work for the long-delayed Windy Hollow Road Rehabilitation Project.
🔗 Read more

Kashia Elementary Faces Closure as Enrollment Collapses
By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
The one-room Kashia Elementary School District, serving the Kashia Band of Pomo Indians, could be ordered to shut its doors after enrollment fell from 15 students to just 6 in seven years. During the same period, operating costs climbed from $340,000 to nearly $1 million annually.
🔗 Read more

🎓 Willits

Willits Declares Fiscal Emergency, Lays Off Seven Workers
By B.B. Kamonoff, Willits Weekly
The City of Willits declared a fiscal emergency and permanently laid off seven employees during a special meeting Monday. Workers were released without severance.
🔗 Read this

$20 Million Plan Would Turn Mendocino College Willits Campus Into Career Training Hub
By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal
Nearly $20 million in state and federal funding will support construction of a new 18,843-square-foot career training facility at the Mendocino College Willits campus, expected to open in spring 2029. Programs will include construction trades, lab service technology, and fire science, including a new Fire Academy.
🔗 Read this

Willits Indivisible Prepares for “No Kings” Protest
By Savana Robinson , The Mendocino Voice
More than 20 members of Willits Indivisible took part in a nonviolence training workshop Saturday in preparation for the group’s planned “No Kings” protest on March 28.
🔗 Read this

🔥 CalMatters

State Farm Settlement Could Save California Policyholders $530 Million
By Levi Sumagaysay, CalMatters
A settlement between State Farm, the California Department of Insurance, and Consumer Watchdog could save policyholders roughly $530 million following emergency rate hikes tied to the Los Angeles County fires. The agreement lowers proposed increases for condo and rental property owners and temporarily prevents certain wildfire-area policy cancellations. A decision from an administrative law judge is expected April 7.
🔗 Read more

San Diego County Sues Trump Administration Over ICE Facility Inspection
By Wendy Fry, CalMatters
San Diego County has filed a federal lawsuit alleging the Trump administration illegally blocked a public health inspection of the Otay Mesa Detention Center, a privately operated ICE facility. County officials say inspectors were initially cleared to enter but were turned away upon arrival.
🔗 Read more

🏛️ Mendocino County

Accounting Shift Balances Budget

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News

Mendocino County closed a $2.8M shortfall with a temporary accounting maneuver, counting late state and federal reimbursements as last year’s revenue, but the move borrows from next year’s budget and does not address the county’s structural deficit.

Read more →

Fire Safe Council Opens 5th Annual Micro-Grant Program

By Mendocino County Fire Safe Council

$100,000+ in grants are available to support community wildfire preparedness projects, from neighborhood vegetation management to evacuation planning. Grants range $2,000–$12,500.

Learn more →

🌱 Caspar

Farmers Grow Crops That Adapt to Local Conditions

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News

Local farmers pioneer “adaptation gardening,” growing freely pollinating crops that evolve to thrive in Mendocino’s climate. These plants are resilient, nutrient-dense, and not controlled by corporate patents.

Read more →

⚾ Fort Bragg

Timberwolves Baseball Team Earns Oracle Park Spotlight

By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News

Fort Bragg High’s team will face Napa-based Justin-Siena at Oracle Park on April 11 after a thrilling comeback win, scoring 6 runs in 2 innings to take the opener 7–5.

Read more →

Taqueria La Oaxaqueña Finds Permanent Home

By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News

The popular food truck run by Sergio Lopez & Bertha Calleja now has a stable spot in Purity Market’s parking lot, securing Oaxacan-inspired cuisine for Fort Bragg residents.

Read more →

Boy Scout’s Navarro–Noyo Trail: Lost Adventure

By Katy Tahja, Anderson Valley Advertiser (subscription required)

From the 1950s–1995, Scouts hiked 50+ miles across timberlands from Camp Navarro to Camp Noyo, earning prestigious badges on this legendary 7-day trek.

Read more →

West Business Development Center Opens Fort Bragg Office

West Business Development Center

The Ukiah-based nonprofit now has a new office at 335 N. Franklin Street, supporting local entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Read more →

Asphalt Patches on Sidewalks? They’re Temporary

By Mandela Linder, The Mendocino Voice

Fort Bragg sidewalks show uneven asphalt patches, but the city says they’re part of early fiber-optic broadband installation and will be replaced.

Read more →

🕊️ Gualala

Susan Quinn: Sherpa for Life’s Final Chapter

By Susan Wolbarst, Independent Coast Observer (subscription required)

Susan Quinn, of Gualala and Anchor Bay, guides families through the emotional, logical, and financial challenges of dying.

Read more →

🎭 Point Arena

Psychic Comedian Packs Arena Theater

By Kat Gleason, Independent Coast Observer (subscription required)

Peter Antoniou drew a full house with an interactive show, attracting audiences from across the Mendonoma Coast & Northern California.

Read more →

📡 The Sea Ranch

Sea Ranch Cell Tower Moves Forward Despite Opposition

By George Calys, Independent Coast Observer (subscription required)

Board plans to seek bids for a new tower near Deer Trail dog park. Opponents say they have retained legal counsel.

Read more →

🌞 Ukiah

City Council Cuts Credits for Some Solar Users

By Sydney Fishman, The Mendocino Voice

Solar users installed before July 2021 will now receive 6.75¢/kWh “avoided cost” rate, down from full retail credits.

Read more →

Ukiah Florist Featured at de Young Museum

By Monica Huettl, Medium

Wil Gonzalez, owner of W/E Flowers, will showcase a design inspired by Bierstadt’s “The Arch of Octavius” at Bouquets to Art.

Read more →

Two New Roads Planned for Ukiah’s Eastern Hills

By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal

• East Hills Evacuation Route (north-south, Cal Fire funded)

• Redemeyer Road Extension (east-west, $40M grant, construction years away)

Read more →

County Halts Ukiah Library Feasibility Study

By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal

Ukiah Library expansion/relocation study paused due to funding. Supervisor Maureen Mulheren, who represents Ukiah, plans to continue discussions.

Read more →

Ukiah Man Held for Sword Attack Over Pit Bull

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News

A 23-year-old man stabbed a 33-year-old while attempting to reclaim a pit bull he said was his dog.

Read more →

🚓 Willits

Willits Man Convicted of 11 Child Sexual Abuse Charges

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News

Christopher Neil Kiger, 42, found guilty of 11 felonies for abuse of a child (2020–2023). Sentencing: March 25.

Read more →

Driver Rescued After SUV Plunge

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News

Bette Loflin, 73, rescued after her Honda Pilot left Highway 101 near Howard Forest CAL FIRE and plunged down a steep embankment.

Read more →

Two Rock Lookout Tower Returns With Fire-Detection Cameras

By Sarah Reith, Mendocino County Fire Safe Council

A historic tower near Willits will host 2 wildfire cameras, funded by PG&E. Completion before 2026 fire season.

Read more →

🏛️ California

Who Pays for AI’s Power?

By Alejandro Lazo, CalMatters

Report warns AI data centers could spike household electricity bills. Little Hoover Commission wants tech companies to fund grid upgrades.

Read more →

Single-Payer Health Care Returns to Governor’s Race

By Jeanne Kuang, CalMatters

Candidates, including Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, Tony Thurmond, revive “Medicare for All” pledges, facing major federal and state hurdles.

Read more →

Lawmakers Push to Make Lobbyist Letters Public

By Ryan Sabalow, CalMatters

Two bills would require all lobbying letters to be posted online, improving transparency in California lawmaking.

Read more →

🌲 MENDOCINO COUNTY

Mendocino County’s Structural Deficit Continues to Widen

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Mendocino County faces a deepening structural deficit with expenses projected to outpace revenues through at least 2030. The county begins fiscal year 2026–27 with a $4.5–$5 million budget hole before new departmental requests, driven largely by rising salary and benefit costs ($93.5 million projected) and increased public safety spending.
🔗 Read this

Money for Lobbyists and Lawyers or for Fixing County Roads?

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
County supervisors unanimously approved a $500,000 allocation to the Inland Water and Power Commission for legal and lobbying expenses related to the Potter Valley Project decommissioning, despite limited details about how the funds would be spent. The decision came amid a projected budget deficit of at least $4.5 million and pushback from Supervisor Ted Williams, who proposed redirecting $450,000 of the allocation to road repairs. Supervisor Mo Mulheren argued the expense was necessary for the county to continue participating in ongoing water management conversations.
🔗 Read this

Donation Letters Returned After Post Office Deactivates PO Box Without Notice

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
Mendo Local Public Media’s fundraising campaign was disrupted after its Mendocino post office box was deactivated without prior notice. Supporters whose contributions were returned are encouraged to resend them. The episode raises broader concerns about communication practices and customer service at the local post office in the Village of Mendocino, particularly for small organizations and individuals that rely on mail for essential operations.
🔗 Read this

Good Farm Fund Opens 2026 Farm Grant Applications for Mendocino and Lake County Farmers

By Good Farm Fund
The Good Farm Fund is now accepting applications for its 2026 Farm Grant Program, which supports economic development and food security in Mendocino and Lake Counties. Small farms can apply for capacity-building grants in three tiers:
• Up to $3,000 (Tier 1)
• $3,000–$5,000 (Tier 2)
• $5,000–$10,000 for collaborative multi-farm projects (Tier 3)
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Mendocino County Opens Fish and Wildlife Propagation Grant Cycle

By Mendocino County Department of Planning and Building Services
The Mendocino County Fish and Game Commission is now accepting applications for the Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund, opening March 1, 2026. Eligible projects include wildlife education programs, habitat improvement, hatchery operations, wildlife research, and emergency animal care. Applications are due by Friday, April 3, 2026 at 4:00 PM.
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🍇 ANDERSON VALLEY

Pioneers of Anderson Valley Wine: Allan Green Shares Winery History

By Terry Sites, Anderson Valley Advertiser
Allan Green, founder of Greenwood Ridge Winery, has published Pioneers of Anderson Valley Wine, a documentary book chronicling the early days of commercial winegrowing in Mendocino County. The book features interviews with pioneering winemakers and archival family photos.
🔗 Read this (Subscription required)

An Hour of Nothing But Smiles and Laughter: Donkey Basketball Comes to Boonville

By Antoinette von Grone, Anderson Valley Advertiser
The Boonville High School gym hosted an unforgettable evening of community fun as local high schoolers challenged the Anderson Valley Fire Department to a game of donkey basketball — players competing while mounted on live donkeys outfitted with protective “shoes” for the gym floor.
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🌄 COVELO

Covelo Man on Felony Probation Held Without Bail After Crash, Weapons Charges

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
A 26-year-old Covelo man was arrested after fleeing a traffic stop, crashing into a tree, and being found hiding in a field with a loaded stolen handgun. Oscar Lil Bear Martinez, on felony probation for assault with a deadly weapon, was prohibited from possessing firearms.
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Drug-Impaired Driver Convicted at Trial

By Mendocino County District Attorney
A Mendocino County Superior Court jury convicted a Covelo man of driving under the influence of drugs following a three-day trial. Jurors found 46-year-old Alexander Jacob Aaron guilty of a misdemeanor charge stemming from a February 28, 2025 traffic stop in Willits.
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Round Valley Library Receives Will Eisner Graphic Novel Innovation Grant

By Round Valley Branch Library
The Round Valley Branch Library has been awarded the Will Eisner Graphic Novel Innovation Grant. The library will celebrate Eisner Week with a March 7 graphic novel open house featuring a comic-making station, scavenger hunt, bilingual crafts, and book recommendations.
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🌊 ELK

Caltrans Clears Massive Highway 1 Slide in Hours; All Roads Open After Days of Storm Damage

By Frank Hartzell, MendocinoCoast.News
After days of severe weather, Caltrans crews worked through the night to clear a massive landslide that had blocked Highway 1 south of Elk, reopening the critical coastal route by early Thursday morning.
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🌸 FORT BRAGG

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens Named Among Nation’s Best

By Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens has once again earned national recognition. A panel of experts in American public gardens, working alongside editors at USA TODAY, selected the top 20 botanical gardens in the country — and MCBG was named a finalist in the annual USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
🔗You can cast your vote here:

🌊 GUALALA

Regional Water Board Approves Gualala River Sediment Action Plan

By Susan Wolbarst, Independent Coast Observer
The North Coast Regional Water Board expanded a Roads Permit to encompass the entire north coast region, aiming to reduce sediment pollution and aid in the resurgence of coho salmon in the Gualala River watershed.
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🏙️ UKIAH

Ukiah Unified Approves Staff Cuts Amid Funding Losses, Enrollment Shifts

By Sydney Fishman, The Mendocino Voice
Ukiah Unified approved layoffs of nearly 20 teaching and counseling positions for 2026–27, along with six non-teaching roles. Officials cited declining enrollment and the loss of federal grants.
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“Don’t Disturb This Groove” Exhibition Opens at Mendocino College

By Laura Fogg, The Ukiah Daily Journal
Cal Poly Humboldt art professors Eliseo Casiano and Gina Tuzzi bring their creative vision and 15 painting alumni to Mendocino College in an exhibition celebrating 15 years of artistic collaboration rooted in color and the north coast landscape.
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Women’s History Gala Honors Four County Leaders Shaping a Sustainable Future

By Carole Brodsky, The Ukiah Daily Journal
The 42nd annual Women’s History Gala on March 1 will honor four Mendocino County women for their decades of service across food systems, healthcare, arts, and community building.
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Mendocino County Shelter Launches Major Spay/Neuter Initiative with Animal Balance

By Carole Brodsky, The Ukiah Daily Journal
Mendocino County Animal Care Services is partnering with Animal Balance, an international nonprofit organization, to perform 600 affordable spay and neuter surgeries across three separate three-day clinics in 2026. The events are scheduled for March 6-8, May 1-3, and July 31-August 2, with services costing just $122 per animal—a package that includes microchipping and vaccinations.
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⛳ WILLITS

Brooktrails Golf Course Under New Management

By Mathew Caine, The Willits Weekly
Brooktrails Golf Course is under new management, with plans for monthly tournaments (including disc golf), live music, and a bistro.
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🏛️ CALMATTERS

Californians Staying Insured—But at What Cost?

By Ana B. Ibarra, CalMatters
California’s health insurance marketplace proved more resilient than expected after the loss of enhanced federal subsidies, but many residents are making painful trade-offs to remain covered.
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California’s Heat Pump Conundrum: Climate Goals Meet High Electricity Bills

By Ben Christopher and Alejandro Lazo, CalMatters
California aims to install six million heat pumps by 2030, but the state’s high electricity rates are making the switch financially difficult for many homeowners.
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Hidden Cameras on California’s Border: What You Need to Know About License Plate Readers

By Wendy Fry and Khari Johnson, CalMatters
Federal agencies have installed dozens of hidden license plate readers along California’s southern border, raising serious privacy concerns about widespread vehicle tracking.
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🌲 MENDOCINO COUNTY

Bill Would Shift Focus of State Demonstration Forests from Logging to Restoration

By Sarah Stierch, The Mendocino Voice
Assembly Bill 2494, introduced by Assemblymember Chris Rogers and co-authored by state Senator Mike McGuire, would redefine the mission of California’s 14 state demonstration forests — including Jackson Demonstration State Forest — prioritizing research, restoration and recreation over logging.
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James Schnitzius to Lead Mendocino County DA’s Bureau of Investigations

By Mendocino County District Attorney
Senior Investigator James Schnitzius has been selected to lead the Mendocino County District Attorney’s Bureau of Investigations, succeeding retiring Chief Investigator Andrew Alvarado on March 1.
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Mendo Spends $160K on County Counsel “Assessment”

By Mark Scaramella, The Anderson Valley Advertiser
Approved without discussion on the December consent calendar, Mendocino County authorized a $160,000 contract for “management and County Counsel assessment services.” South Lake Tahoe attorney Charles J. McKee will bill $325 per hour (plus $100/hour travel) to evaluate the office and assist with leadership transition. The move comes amid tight budgets and recent State Auditor guidance recommending competitive bids for high-value contracts.
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Mendocino College Bond Approved for June 2 Election

By Jennifer Poole, Willits Weekly
Trustees voted unanimously to place a $98 million bond on the June 2 ballot. The measure would fund repairs to classrooms and labs, address mold and lead paint, maintain drinking water systems, and expand career training programs. Property owners would pay $24 annually per $100,000 of assessed value.
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🌳 ANCHOR BAY

44-Year-Old Man Dies in Car Accident Near Anchor Bay

By David Torres, Independent Coast Observer
David Alexander Printz died February 16 when his GMC Sierra left Highway 1 and struck a tree near mile marker 8.5. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
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🚓 FORT BRAGG

Fort Bragg Police Chief Eric Swift Responds to Questions About ICE

By Mary Rose Kaczorowski, The Mendocino Voice
At a recent meet-and-greet, Police Chief Eric Swift and City Manager Isaac Whippy fielded questions about youth programs, housing, racism, and immigration enforcement. Swift said if ICE were involved in a local matter, the department would have the legal authority to investigate.
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What’s Next for The Wharf at Noyo Harbor?

By Frank Hartzell, Mendocino Coast News
Under new ownership by Bob Hunt and Pamela Amante, The Wharf — a Fort Bragg institution for more than 70 years — is undergoing renovations. The owners are inviting community input on everything from menu ideas to preserving long-standing traditions like dog-friendly dining.
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🏥 GUALALA

South Coast Becomes a ‘Pharmacy Desert’ After Fourth Closure in 12 Years

By Alessandra Rizzo, The Mendocino Voice
The November closure of Genoa Healthcare in Gualala leaves a 60-mile stretch of the South Coast without a pharmacy. Residents must now travel more than 90 minutes for prescriptions. The closure reflects a nationwide trend: nearly 30% of U.S. pharmacies closed between 2010 and 2021.
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🌱 HOPLAND

GrizzlyCorps Returns After Federal Cuts

By Mary Rose Kaczorowski, The Mendocino Voice
After abrupt termination due to federal cuts, GrizzlyCorps has resumed operations at reduced capacity. Fellows are now serving at the UC Hopland Research and Extension Center and the Mendocino County Fire Safe Council, supporting wildfire prevention and environmental projects.
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🚗 LAYTONVILLE

One Person Found in Vehicle Pulled from Eel River

By Sarah Stierch, The Mendocino Voice
A vehicle that drove off Highway 162 into the Eel River east of Laytonville was recovered Tuesday morning. The victim was identified as Gary Niesen of Covelo. His wife, Yvonne Niesen, was reported missing.
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🏫 MANCHESTER

Historic Manchester Schoolhouse Has a New Owner

By Susan Wolbarst, Independent Coast Observer
The 1907 Manchester schoolhouse has been purchased for $275,000 by Lauren Dowling. The building requires extensive renovation, including plumbing and electrical upgrades.
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Internet Outages Caused by Vandals

By Susan Wolbarst, Independent Coast Observer
Thousands of AT&T customers from Manchester to Gualala lost service after vandals cut a fiber optic cable February 13. Connectivity was restored early February 16.
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🌊 POINT ARENA

Sea Level Rise Polices Before Point Arena City Council

By Katy St. Clair, The Mendocino Voice
The Point Arena City Council is considering amendments adding sea level rise policies to its General Plan, following a $100,000 Coastal Commission grant that funded a vulnerability study of Arena Cove.
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🔥 REDWOOD VALLEY

Homebuyer Program Offers Funding for 2017 Fire Survivors

By Sydney Fishman, The Mendocino Voice
The ReCoverCA Homebuyer Assistance Program is offering support to low-income Redwood Valley residents impacted by the 2017 fires, helping eligible buyers secure stable housing.
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💧 UKIAH

Water Bills Set to Climb 60% Over Five Years

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
The Ukiah Valley Water Authority approved rate increases exceeding 60% over five years, despite more than 200 protest letters. Some residents will see hikes as high as 30% this year.
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Ukiah Planting 700 New Trees in Urban Forest Initiative

By Justine Frederiksen, Ukiah Daily Journal
Backed by a $1.4 million Cal Fire grant received in 2024, the City of Ukiah to plant more than 700 trees as part of a climate resilience effort.
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Ukiah Man Charged with Human Trafficking After Oakland Incident

By Nate Gartrell, Bay Area News Group
Alexander Barger, a 22-year-old Ukiah man faces multiple felony charges after allegedly holding a woman hostage in Oakland and forcing her into sex work. He remains in Santa Rita Jail without bail.
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🚂 WILLITS

Federal Railroad Board Blocks Great Redwood Trail Abandonment

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
The Surface Transportation Board denied the Great Redwood Trail Agency’s request to abandon a 40-mile rail line between Fort Bragg and Willits, preserving the corridor’s freight potential.
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Dispute Over Century-Old Alley Heads to April Hearing

By Elise Cox, MendoLocal.News
The Willits City Council is moving toward resolving a dispute over a back alley that dates to 1902, while also debating public art relocation and community concerns about ICE enforcement.
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Willits Man Arrested After Allegedly Posing as Uber Driver

By Ukiah Police Department
Police arrested a Willits man accused of posing as an Uber driver to lure a woman into his vehicle. Additional allegations involve secretly recorded videos of a minor.
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🏛️ CALIFORNIA

Supreme Court Strikes Down Trump’s Tariffs

By Levi Sumagaysay, CalMatters
In a 6–3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that President Trump lacked authority to impose sweeping tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act — a decision with significant implications for California’s economy.
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California Mountain Lions Get Protected Status—But Only in Certain Regions

By Rachel Becker, CalMatters
California’s Fish and Game Commission voted unanimously to list mountain lion populations in the Central Coast and Southern California as threatened under the state’s endangered species act. The move protects about one-third of California’s estimated 4,200 mountain lions, which face threats from habitat fragmentation, vehicle strikes, rat poison, and inbreeding. Scientists warn that isolated populations show alarming signs of genetic decline, including kinked tails and reproductive defects.
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Senior Centers Becoming Lifelines Against Isolation

By Joe Garcia, CalMatters
As California’s population ages, senior centers are emerging as essential community hubs, offering recreation, meals and vital social connection to combat isolation.
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