CLEARLAKE— A resolution authorizing the extension of temporary road closures of certain roads in Clearlake was considered during the Public Hearing part of the Clearlake City Council’s meeting Thursday at the Clearlake City Hall Council Chambers. Officials noted that the goal is to reduce illegal dumping and to protect the environment and the public health and welfare.
As Publics Work Director, Adeline Leyba said, “In January of 2022, the council had a public hearing and authorized the closure of certain roads to prevent illegal dumping and other illegal activities. Before this, the city purchased thousands of feet of K-Rail construction barrier gates and other materials to block up the area. This area that was impacted is commonly referred to as the Gobi Desert, a largely undeveloped area of the city, west of Acacia, north of Sonoma and includes all or portions of Oleander, Mint, Peony, Toyon and Oregon.”
Staff believes that the operation has been effective in controlling illegal dumping in the area and is requesting an extension be given. The California Vehicle Code requires a public hearing to be conducted every 18 months to extend the road closure. “Suggested recommended action is to adopt the resolution 2023-25,” she said.
When it comes to complaints from residents in those closed off areas, the Publics Work Director said there has been “a couple from people who would like to purchase property or who own a piece of property that they’d be let in to access their properties, but it’s maybe one or two people.” She added that the requests can be accommodated.
The motion passed with a unanimous vote of the Council.
Temporary closure will be kept in the following segments of roads in Clearlake:
- Oleander St. from Eastlake Dr. to Sonoma Ave.
- Mint St. from Eastlake Dr. to Sonoma Ave.
- Peony St. from Eastlake Dr. to Oregon Ave.
- From 3283 Toyon St. south to Oregon Ave.
- Oregon Ave. from Mint St. to Park St.
The City Council decided that the continuation of the temporary closure for an additional 18 months is necessary. Based upon a recommendation from the Clearlake Police Department, the City Council found the decision will assist in preventing the occurrence of the illegal dumping that continues to exist near these roads. They are not designated as a through highway or arterial street. Vehicular and pedestrian traffic on those is a contributing factor to the issue.
The preceding closure has not substantially adversely affected traffic flow, safety on the adjacent streets and surrounding neighborhoods, the performance of municipal or public utility services or the delivery of freight by commercial vehicles in the area.
The City Council meeting also took the opportunity to declare June 7, at 3 pm, the date for continuing the public hearing on approval of the Burns Valley development project. “This is mainly the sports complex project by the Burns Valley Mall.” said City Manager Alan Flora, adding that the public hearing was in response to a recent appeal to the project.
