Mendo Local Weekly News — April 11, 2026
Tragedy at Todd Point, a private equity firm acquires Skunk Train holding company, and sexual harassment allegations are made in the District Three Board of Supervisors race
🥕 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.
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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.
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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.
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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)
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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.
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🍇 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.
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📡 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)
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⚠️ 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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📄 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)
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Manchester Man Arrested After Alleged Window-Smashing Spree
Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office
A 34-year-old man was arrested April 2 after deputies responded to reports of vehicle windows being smashed with a metal pipe on Rancheria Road.
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🗑️ 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.
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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.
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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.
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⚖️ 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.
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🏗️ 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)
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🌄 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.
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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.
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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.
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✈️ 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.
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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.
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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.
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Correction: The subheading to this article and the photo caption originally referred to Todd Point as Todd’s Point. We regret the error.