Megan Hansen/The Times-Standard
Posted: 05/20/2012 02:15:34 AM PDT
Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park might be saved from closure if the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors votes Tuesday to enter into an operating agreement with the state.
The county's public works department has developed a plan to operate the park for a year, starting next week, in partnership with the California Department of Parks and Recreation and the Save the Redwoods League. The park comprises 459 acres of land along State Route 36 between Fortuna and Bridgeville.
According to a staff report, the Save the Redwoods League would provide the funding for the county to operate the park and its campground. The county already operates the Van Duzen County Park, which is adjacent to Grizzly Creek. The report states the goal is to make taking on the management of the state park a cost-neutral endeavor.
Public works is proposing the county charge a $25-a-day camping fee and a $5 day-use fee. It's estimated the cost of running the park will run about $95,000 for one year. Staff have estimated the park could generate about $55,000 to $65,000 in revenue. The Save the Redwoods League would bridge the gap.
In addition to discussing park management, the supervisors will review and possibly modify responses from county departments to the 2011-2012 grand jury report. The jury made recommendations in regard to water sampling techniques, building improvements to public safety departments and problems with the former community development services department. The various county departments have replied to these responses in written form, as mandated by the jury.
During the afternoon session, the supervisors will hold a continued public hearing on the proposed formation of the Humboldt County Tourism Business Improvement District.
In March, the supervisors passed a resolution declaring their intent to form such a district. The district would collect a 2 percent tax from hotel and lodging businesses. The tax would be charged to a customer's bill for each night spent in a local hotel, and the funds would be used to promote tourism in the county.
The activities of the proposed district would be conducted by the Humboldt Lodging Alliance -- a special interest group aimed at creating a unified voice for hoteliers, innkeepers and property managers.
In addition to conducting a public hearing, the supervisors will receive an update from the county administrative officer on the development of an ordinance aimed at outlining the proper uses of county property as it relates to protests and assemblies.
The board directed the CAO in January to work with the city of Eureka, law enforcement officials, members of the Occupy Movement, the Humboldt County Human Rights Commission and historical users of the courthouse in developing regulations.
For the complete board of supervisors meeting agenda and supporting documents, go online to www.co.humboldt.ca.us/board/agenda/questys/.
http://www.times-standard.com/localnews/ci_20667047/supervisors-consider-operating-grizzly-creek-park-county-inspect
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