Mendo Local Weekly News Roundup — September 5, 2025
From countywide code enforcement sweeps to an investigative report on CARE court, here's how state and local policies are impacting our communities.
MENDOCINO COUNTY
🔨 Planning and Building Code Enforcement Sweeping County
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By Jim Shields, Anderson Valley Advertiser
At its Aug. 27 meeting, the Laytonville Area Municipal Advisory Council discussed a surge of more than 100 anonymous code enforcement complaints filed countywide in July—far above the usual monthly average of two dozen. Local business owner Meadow Shere of Long Valley Feed called the costly permitting process a threat to her family’s 78-year-old operation, urging reform of what she described as a system that punishes small businesses. Supervisor John Haschak confirmed the spike and said the issue will come before the Board of Supervisors on Sept. 9.
🌊 Army Corps of Engineers Warns of Harmful Algae in Lake Mendocino
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By Lin Due and Sarah Stierch, Mendocino Voice
Low concentrations of cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, have been detected in Lake Mendocino. While not currently a health threat, officials advise avoiding visible scum and keeping pets out of the water. Algal mats have also been spotted in the East Fork of the Russian River and Navarro River at Hendy Woods State Park.
⚖️ What’s Dave’s Side of the Story?
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By Tommy Wayne Kramer, Anderson Valley Advertiser
As District Attorney David Eyster faces a threatened recall, some wonder how he’ll defend his decision to prosecute then-Auditor Chamise Cubbison—who was later exonerated. “There’s talk of the county being on the hook for hundreds of thousands, if not millions, in legal fees,” Kramer writes. “But Dave, a master of Opening Statements and Closing Arguments, could explain things in public.”
FORT BRAGG
🚗 Paul Bunyan Days Parade Highlights
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By Frank Hartzell
Photographers Frank Hartzell and Bob Dominy showcased standout images from this year’s parade, including a rare fully restored 1909 REO automobile tied to Fort Bragg’s Weller family.
🥫 City of Fort Bragg Donates $58k to Food Bank Amid Federal Cuts
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By Sarah Stierch, Mendocino Voice
The city donated $58,000 to the Mendo Food Network, which supports 15,000 residents through 30 partners. Federal cuts have already slashed USDA funding and reduced state-supplied food by $400,000.
🍹 No New Road for Noyo Harbor; Fort Bragg OKs Downtown Drinks
By Elise Cox, Mendo Local News
A draft plan for Noyo Harbor calls for new signage, walkways, parking management, and even water taxis — but stops short of extending North Harbor Drive to Highway 1. Meanwhile, the City Council approved a downtown pilot “entertainment zone” allowing alcohol in designated areas during limited weekend hours.
LAYTONVILLE
⛸️ Skate Night Returns
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By Mathew Caine, Willits Weekly
The first Skate Night of the season at Harwood Hall began slowly, but soon filled with kids and adults alike. Admission is $1, and skate rentals are $2—keeping the decades-old tradition affordable for all.
MANCHESTER
🌱 Wetland Habitat Restoration Project Proposed
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By Matt LaFever
Manchester could host Mendocino County’s first “mitigation bank,” a project designed to restore wetlands and protect species like steelhead, salmon, and red-legged frogs, while offsetting environmental impacts of future development.
SEA RANCH
📡 North Cell Tower Approved Despite Opposition
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By George Calys, Independent Coast Observer
On Aug. 23, the Sea Ranch Board voted 5-2 to approve a site for a new cell tower on the community’s north end, despite opposition from most attendees.
WILLITS
💸 City Prepares for Layoffs as Bankruptcy Looms
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By Elise Cox, Mendo Local News
The City of Willits faces a $2.23 million deficit, with layoffs on the table as the council meets Sept. 10. Salary costs have jumped 55% since 2019, while general fund spending far exceeds revenue.
🏙️ Proposed Zoning Changes Aim to Revive Main Street
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By B.B. Kamoroff, Willits Weekly
With 27 downtown storefronts vacant, city leaders are considering a “Main Street Mixed Use Zone” to attract businesses and apartments. Ideas include reduced parking requirements and space for nano-breweries.
🍷 Willits Considers Downtown Entertainment Zone
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By Sydney Fishman, Mendocino Voice
A draft ordinance would allow open-container alcohol at permitted downtown events, aligning with a new state law. Supporters say it could boost business and cultural activity.
FROM CALMATTERS
🧠 CARE Court Falls Short of Early Promises
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By Marisa Kendall, Jocelyn Wiener & Erica Yee
Two years in, Gov. Newsom’s CARE Court has reached only a few hundred people statewide—far below the 7,000–12,000 projected. Mendocino County has logged zero petitions to date.
💰 Covered California Premiums to Jump 10.3% in 2026
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By Kristen Hwang
Covered California premiums will rise by double digits for the first time since 2018. Officials blame rising health care costs, inflation, and the possible expiration of enhanced federal subsidies.