Planning Commission

AGENDA Planning Commission City of Calistoga Wednesday, January 28, 2026 | 5:30 PM Calistoga Community Center 1307 Washington Street Calistoga, CA 94515 MEMBERS Steven Pinsky, Chair Emily Bucchianeri, Vice Chair Eugene Gorman, Commissioner Rick Kaiser, Commissioner Molly Towey, Commissioner STAFF LIAISONS Greg Desmond, Planning & Building Director Andrew Amelung, Senior Planner Lauren Clark, Assistant Planner City Hall 1232 Washington Street | Calistoga, CA 94515 Phone (707)942-2805 | Fax: (707) 942-0732 www.calistogaca.gov Planning Commission Agenda January 28, 2026 GENERAL INFORMATION The Planning Commission meets as specified in its adopted annual calendar on the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at 5:30 P.M. in regular session at 1307 Washington Street, Calistoga, CA 94515. Additional meetings may be scheduled as needed. Information Available: Documents related to this meeting are available on our Meeting Portal or by contacting the City Clerk. After the agenda packet is distributed, any documents related to an agenda item are available for public inspection at City Hall. Governing Law: The Planning Commission conducts all meetings in accordance with the "Ralph M. Brown Act" (California Government Code Sections 54950, et seq.) and pursuant to the Calistoga City Planning Commission Rules of Procedure, ordinances of the City, and applicable state law. Access to Public Meetings: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, individuals requiring special assistance to participate in this meeting may contact the City Clerk’s Office at (707) 942-2807. To facilitate proper arrangements, we kindly request that any requests for reasonable accommodations be submitted at least 48 hours in advance of the scheduled meeting. Wheelchair access to the Calistoga Community Center and a speaker's microphone are available to all persons. Para obtener la traducción de documentos o asistencia especial para participar en esta reunión, comuníquese con la Oficina del Secretario Municipal al (707) 942-2807. Para facilitar los arreglos adecuados, le solicitamos que cualquier solicitud de adaptaciones razonables se envíe al menos 48 horas antes de la reunión programada. How to View or Hear the Meeting: 1. Attend in person at the Calistoga Community Center located at 1307 Washington Street, Calistoga, CA 94515 2. Watch on the Napa Valley TV Channel 28 (requires City of Calistoga coded cable box) 3. Watch online via YouTube Live at www.youtube.com/cityofcalistoga 4. Watch online via Zoom at https://www.zoom.us/join (Meeting ID: 889 5265 5208, Password: 100313) 5. Listen by phone by dialing (669) 900-6833 (Meeting ID: 889 5265 5208, Password: 100313) Remote Zoom participation for members of the public is provided for convenience only. In the event that the Zoom connection malfunctions for any reason, the Planning Commission reserves the right to conduct the meeting without remote access. How to Participate - Written Comments: To submit a general public comment or to comment on a specific agenda item, please direct your email to publiccomment@calistogaca.gov. To guarantee that your comments are received and distributed appropriately, the subject line of your email should clearly state “Planning Commission,” along with the relevant agenda item, if applicable. Comments must be submitted at least four hours prior to the meeting start time to be included in the agenda and posted online. Comments received thereafter, will be made part of the official record and given to the Committee after the meeting. How to Participate - Oral Comments: In accordance with the California Government Code Section 54954.3, members of the public are permitted to address the Commission during the designated public comment period and in relation to any agenda item under consideration. Each participant has the option to provide their name for the record prior to speaking and will be allotted three (3) minutes for their remarks. The Chair reserves the right to limit public comments should they become irrelevant to the agenda item or if they are repetitive of previous statements. Furthermore, the Chair is responsible for maintaining order and decorum throughout the meeting. Appeals: Decisions of the Planning Commission may be appealed pursuant to Calistoga Municipal Code Chapter 1.20, Appeals. Absent of an appeal, the appeal period will terminate ten (10) days after the Planning Commission hearing. Page 1 of 88 Planning Commission Agenda January 28, 2026 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL 4. PUBLIC COMMENTS An opportunity for members of the public to directly address the Commission on topics of interest that are not included on the agenda. Individuals wishing to speak must state their name and address and are requested to limit their comments to three minutes. In accordance with the restrictions set forth by the Brown Act, the Commission is unable to engage in substantive discussions or take action on issues that are not outlined in the agenda. 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The official vote by the Commission to accept or amend the minutes of previous meetings. 5.1. Approval of draft minutes from the previous meeting Planning Commission - Jan 14 2026 - Minutes - Pdf (Page 5 - 11) Planning Commission - Jan 14 2026 - Minutes - Html (Page 5 - 11) 6. PLANNING COMMISSION TRAINING/WORKSHOP 6.1. Planning Commission Workshop: CEQA Primer for Planning Commissioners Recommended Action: - Receive the Presentation Staff Report - Planning Commission Workshop: CEQA Primer for Planning Commissioners - Pdf (Page 13 - 89) Calistoga CEQA Primer Presentation (Page 13 - 89) 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS Staff to present reports on items of general interest. Brief questions for clarification may be asked and answered, and the Commission may request that items be added to a future agenda. However, except in certain circumstances, the Brown Act restricts any further discussion or action by the Commission. 8. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Director of Planning & Building to present reports on items of general interest and the status of projects. 9. COMMISSION MEMBER REPORTS Commission members to present reports on items of general interest or the status of Commission projects. Brief questions for clarification may be asked and answered, and the Commission may request that items be added to a future agenda. However, except in certain circumstances, the Brown Act restricts any further discussion or action by the Commission. 10. ADJOURNMENT I hereby certify that the agenda for the Planning Commission - Jan 28 2026 was duly posted in compliance with California Government Code section 54954(a) at City Hall, located at 1232 Washington Street, Calistoga. Greg Desmond, Planning & Building Director, City of Calistoga Page 2 of 88 Page 4 of 88  Item #5.1. MEETING MINUTES Planning Commission | Wednesday, January 14, 2026 | 5:30 PM Calistoga Community Center | 1307 Washington Street Calistoga, CA 94515 1. CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Pinsky called the regular meeting to order at 5:30 PM. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL Present: Steven Pinsky, Emily Bucchianeri, Richard Kaiser, Molly Towey, Eugene Gorman Absent: None 3.1. Election of Officers Motion by Commissioner Bucchianeri to nominate Commissioner Pinsky as Planning Commission Chair for calendar year 2026 and seconded by Commissioner Towey. Motion Carried. Motion by Commissioner Pinsky to nominate Commissioner Bucchianeri as Planning Commission Vice Chair for calendar year 2026 and seconded by Commissioner Towey. Motion Carried. AYES: Chair Pinsky, Vice Chair Bucchianeri, Commissioner Gorman, Commissioner Kaiser, and Commissioner Towey NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None 4. PUBLIC COMMENTS 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 5.1. Approval of draft minutes from the previous meeting. The draft minutes are approved unanimously. 6. AGENDA ITEMS 6.1. Establishing the 2026 Planning Commission Meeting Schedule Staff Report 2026-001 Minutes Page 1 of 3 Page 5 of 88  Item #5.1. Planning Commission January 14, 2026 Motion by Commissioner Bucchianeri and seconded by Commissioner Towey - Consider Adopting the Resolution Motion Carried AYES: Chair Pinsky, Vice Chair Bucchianeri, Commissioner Gorman, Commissioner Kaiser, and Commissioner Towey NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS 7.1. Consideration of a Use Permit and Design Review application for the renovation and expansion of Hideaway Cottages, an existing resort, including the demolition of six existing cottage structures, the renovation of eight existing structures, and the construction of three new structures, for a future 36-guestroom resort, consistent with the Calistoga General Plan and the Calistoga Municipal Code (CMC), located within the R-3 VA Multi-Family Residential/Office - Visitor Accommodation Zoning District. The project is categorically exempt from CEQA. Approval of the use permit and design review will authorize the associated site improvements and future expansion of the resort, located on 1.76-acre site located at 1412 Fair Way (APN: 011-091-006, 011- 091-010, and 011-091-040). Staff Report 2025-246 The item was presented by City of Calistoga Senior Planner, Andrew Amelung. The Planning Commission discussed and asked clarifying questions. Tim Wilkes, Louise Dell Maggiora, and Steve Bratt provide public comments. Motion by Commissioner Kaiser and seconded by Commissioner Gorman adopting a Resolution approving the Use Permit (UP 2025-02) and Design Review (DR 2025-26), including the adoption of the CEQA Categorical Exemption, and subject to the conditions of approval contained therein (Attachment 1), for the renovation and expansion of an existing resort and associated improvements consistent with the Calistoga General Plan and the Calistoga Municipal Code, within the R-3 / VA Multi- Family Residential/Office - Visitor Accommodation Zoning District, and approve the proposed development plan concept in principle. These actions collectively ensure compliance with CEQA and authorize the associated site improvements and future development of a 36-guestroom resort on a 1.76-acre parcel located at 1412 Fair Way and establishes the process for subsequent site- specific development consistent with applicable City standards and General Plan policies. Motion Carried Minutes Page 2 of 3 Page 6 of 88  Item #5.1. Planning Commission January 14, 2026 AYES: Chair Pinsky, Vice Chair Bucchianeri, Commissioner Gorman, Commissioner Kaiser, and Commissioner Towey NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None 8. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Planning and Building Director, Greg Desmond, invites the Planning Commission to attend the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, to hear a full report of the 2025 achievements and current projects of the Calistoga Planning and Building Department. 9. COMMISSIONER REPORTS 10. ADJOURNMENT Chair Pinsky adjourned the meeting at 6:22 PM. Documents related to this meeting are available on our meeting portal or by contacting the City Clerk. City Public Meetings Portal calistoga.civicweb.net Calistoga City Hall 1232 Washington Street, Calistoga, CA 94515 | (707) 942-2805 www.calistogaca.gov Minutes Page 3 of 3 Page 7 of 88 Page 8 of 88  Item #5.1. MEETING MINUTES Planning Commission | Wednesday, January 14, 2026 | 5:30 PM Calistoga Community Center | 1307 Washington Street Calistoga, CA 94515 1. CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Pinsky called the regular meeting to order at 5:30 PM. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL Present: Steven Pinsky, Emily Bucchianeri, Richard Kaiser, Molly Towey, Eugene Gorman Absent: None 3.1. Election of Officers Motion by Commissioner Bucchianeri to nominate Commissioner Pinsky as Planning Commission Chair for calendar year 2026 and seconded by Commissioner Towey. Motion Carried. Motion by Commissioner Pinsky to nominate Commissioner Bucchianeri as Planning Commission Vice Chair for calendar year 2026 and seconded by Commissioner Towey. Motion Carried. AYES:Chair Pinsky, Vice Chair Bucchianeri, Commissioner Gorman, Commissioner Kaiser, and Commissioner Towey NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None 4. PUBLIC COMMENTS 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 5.1. Approval of draft minutes from the previous meeting. The draft minutes are approved unanimously. 6. AGENDA ITEMS 6.1. Establishing the 2026 Planning Commission Meeting Schedule Staff Report 2026-001 Motion by Commissioner Bucchianeri and seconded by Commissioner Towey - Minutes Page 9 of 88  Item #5.1. Planning Commission January 14, 2026 Consider Adopting the Resolution Motion Carried AYES: Chair Pinsky, Vice Chair Bucchianeri, Commissioner Gorman, Commissioner Kaiser, and Commissioner Towey NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS 7.1. Consideration of a Use Permit and Design Review application for the renovation and expansion of Hideaway Cottages, an existing resort, including the demolition of six existing cottage structures, the renovation of eight existing structures, and the construction of three new structures, for a future 36-guestroom resort, consistent with the Calistoga General Plan and the Calistoga Municipal Code (CMC), located within the R-3 VA Multi-Family Residential/Office - Visitor Accommodation Zoning District. The project is categorically exempt from CEQA. Approval of the use permit and design review will authorize the associated site improvements and future expansion of the resort, located on 1.76-acre site located at 1412 Fair Way (APN: 011-091-006, 011-091-010, and 011-091-040). Staff Report 2025-246 The item was presented by City of Calistoga Senior Planner, Andrew Amelung. The Planning Commission discussed and asked clarifying questions. Tim Wilkes, Louise Dell Maggiora, and Steve Bratt provide public comments. Motion by Commissioner Kaiser and seconded by Commissioner Gorman adopting a Resolution approving the Use Permit (UP 2025-02) and Design Review (DR 2025-26), including the adoption of the CEQA Categorical Exemption, and subject to the conditions of approval contained therein (Attachment 1), for the renovation and expansion of an existing resort and associated improvements consistent with the Calistoga General Plan and the Calistoga Municipal Code, within the R-3 / VA Multi- Family Residential/Office - Visitor Accommodation Zoning District, and approve the proposed development plan concept in principle. These actions collectively ensure compliance with CEQA and authorize the associated site improvements and future development of a 36-guestroom resort on a 1.76-acre parcel located at 1412 Fair Way and establishes the process for subsequent site-specific development consistent with applicable City standards and General Plan policies. Motion Carried Minutes Page 10 of 88  Item #5.1. Planning Commission January 14, 2026 AYES: Chair Pinsky, Vice Chair Bucchianeri, Commissioner Gorman, Commissioner Kaiser, and Commissioner Towey NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None 8. DIRECTOR'S REPORT Planning and Building Director, Greg Desmond, invites the Planning Commission to attend the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, to hear a full report of the 2025 achievements and current projects of the Calistoga Planning and Building Department. 9. COMMISSIONER REPORTS 10. ADJOURNMENT Chair Pinsky adjourned the meeting at 6:22 PM. Documents related to this meeting are available on our meeting portal or by contacting the City Clerk. City Public Meetings Portal calistoga.civicweb.net Calistoga City Hall 1232 Washington Street, Calistoga, CA 94515 | (707) 942-2805 www.calistogaca.gov Minutes Page 11 of 88 Page 12 of 88  Item #6.1. City of Calistoga STAFF REPORT To: Planning Commission From: Lauren Clark, Assistant Planner Meeting: Planning Commission - Jan 28 2026 Subject: Planning Commission Workshop: CEQA Primer for Planning Commissioners DESCRIPTION: Planning Commission CEQA Workshop: CEQA Primer for Planning Commissioners RECOMMENDATION: Receive the Presentation SUMMARY: The purpose of this presentation is to provide training to the Planning Commission on the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). CEQA establishes the framework for evaluating the potential environmental impacts of discretionary projects and is a core component of the Planning Commission’s land use review responsibilities. As projects subject to CEQA are routinely considered by the Planning Commission, it is important that Commissioners maintain a foundational understanding of CEQA requirements, terminology, and procedures. This training is intended to support informed review of future projects, including an upcoming project that will require consideration of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). This item is presented for informational and training purposes only, and no action is requested. ANALYSIS: Presentation Overview The CEQA training presentation/workshop will provide an overview of CEQA fundamentals and their application to Planning Commission review. The presentation will include the following topics:  CEQA Basics Overview of the purpose, intent, and statutory framework of CEQA.  CEQA Process and Document Types Summary of the CEQA review process and commonly used environmental documents, including exemptions, Negative Declarations, Mitigated Negative Declarations, and Environmental Impact Reports (EIRs).  Roles and Responsibilities Discussion of the roles of the Planning Commission, staff, and applicants in the CEQA process.  Reflections and Wrap-Up Review of key concepts and considerations relevant to Planning Commission review of projects subject to CEQA. Page 13 of 88  Item #6.1.  Commissioner Questions Opportunity for Planning Commissioners to ask questions related to the presentation. Importance of CEQA Knowledge for the Planning Commission The Planning Commission plays an important role in the CEQA process as a decision-making body for discretionary projects. A general understanding of CEQA enables Commissioners to better evaluate environmental documentation, understand the relationship between environmental review and land use entitlements, and participate effectively in public hearings and deliberations. This training is particularly timely, as a future project anticipated to be brought before the Planning Commission will require review of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Familiarity with CEQA basics and the EIR process will assist the Commission in reviewing complex environmental documents and providing recommendations consistent with CEQA requirements. Providing this training in advance supports informed decision-making and consistent application of CEQA as projects are considered by the Planning Commission. FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact associated with this informational training item. The presentation is provided as part of regular staff duties. CEQA STATUS: The CEQA training presentation is not a project as defined by the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378, as it is an informational and educational activity that does not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable physical change in the environment. Therefore, no further environmental review is required. ATTACHMENT(S): Calistoga CEQA Primer Presentation APPROVAL(S): Lauren Clark, Assistant Planner Approved - Jan 26 2026 Page 14 of 88  Item #6.1. Page 15 of 88 1  January 28, 2026 California Environmental Quality Act Workshop City of Calistoga Page 16 of 88 Planning Commission Item #6.1. 2  CEQA Workshop Overview • CEQA Basics • CEQA Process and Document Types • Roles and Responsibilities Page 17 of 88 • Reflections and Wrap Up Item #6.1. 3  CEQA History Page 18 of 88 & Background Item #6.1. This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY 4  What CEQA is A California Law An Informal Tool Page 19 of 88 A Decision- Making Public Framework Participation Item #6.1. 5  What CEQA is Not Stand-Alone Project Veto Approval process Page 20 of 88 Guarantee of a Perfect Obstacle to Environment Development Item #6.1. 6  When CEQA Applies CEQA Applies to Projects: an activity which may cause either a direct physical change in the environment or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment Page 21 of 88 An Activity directly undertaken by any public agency An activity which is supported, in whole or in part, through contracts, grants, subsidies, loans, or other forms of assistance from one or more public agencies An activity that involves the issuance to a person of a lease, permit, license, certificate, or other entitlement for use by one or more public agencies Item #6.1. 7  Major Changes to CEQA (2019) Updated Guidelines Page 22 of 88 VMT GHG Item #6.1. 8  Recent CEQA Changes (2025) SB 131 AB 130 • Applies to rural health clinics, • Urban infill housing development childcare centers, broadband projects infrastructure, clean water projects, • Lot is <20 acres, and project meets at food banks. wildfire risk least one urban use criterion mitigation, public parks and trails Page 23 of 88 • Single-issue CEQA • Consistency with General Plan Land Use and Zoning designations • No exceptions to exemptions apply • Local government must notify tribes affiliated with the project site, after which the tribe has 60 days to enter into consultation • Phase I Environmental Site Assessment as Condition of Approval Item #6.1. • VMT Banking 9  Item #6.1. Segment Pause Page 24 of 88 10  Types of CEQA Documentation Proposed Action/Activity is a Project Streamlining/Exemptions Streamlining/Exemptions Not Applicable Applicable • Special Situations Page 25 of 88 (Article 12) Prepare Initial Study • Exemptions for certain Housing Projects (Article 12.5) • Statutory Exemptions Addendum Negative Mitigated Environmental Declaration Negative (Article 18) 2400 Grant Impact Report Declaration • Categorical Street Wallis Family Exemptions (Article 19) Subdivision Estate Dunaweal Kortum Ranch Vineyard Pump Station Development No Further Review Needed Replacement project Item #6.1. 11  Initial Study Determines whether the Preliminary project may have Analysis / significant environmental Technical effects Studies Page 26 of 88 Informs CEQA Pathway • Negative Declaration • Mitigated Negative Declaration • EIR Item #6.1. 12  Initial Study • Aesthetics • Land Use • Agriculture and Forestry • Mineral Resources • Air Quality • Noise • Biological Resources • Population/Housing • Cultural Resources • Public Services • Energy • Recreation • Transportation Page 27 of 88 • Geology/Soils • Greenhouse Gas Emissions • Tribal Cultural Resources • Hazards/Hazardous Materials • Utilities/Service Systems • Hydrology/Water Quality • Wildfire/Wildland Fire Hazards Item #6.1. 13  Item #6.1. Page 28 of 88 14  Exemptions Statutory Categorical • Created by • Created through Legislature regulatory Process (CEQA Guidelines • Project not subject to section 15300-15333) Page 29 of 88 CEQA even if environmental • Exceptions to impacts are posed Exemptions NOE must be filed following project approval Item #6.1. 15  EIR Process and Procedures 1 Project Submittal 2 Initial Study and scoping • Application(s) submitted to City • Prepare Initial Study (optional) • City Initiates Municipal Project • Publish a Notice of Preparation (NOP) • City determines EIR is required • Hold scoping meeting 3 EIR Preparation 4 Draft EIR Public Review Page 30 of 88 • Consult and/or city staff prepare EIR • Notice of Completion (NOC) and • Analyze potential project impacts on Draft EIR available for public review various environmental factors and comment (45 days) • Project Alternatives • Public hearing(s) may be held • Lead agency considers comments 5 Final EIR Certification • Final EIR Certified • Lead Agency makes findings • Lead Agency adopts statement of overriding considerations, if Item #6.1. necessary • Compliance with mitigation measures 16  Draft EIR Contents • Proposed Actions/Consequences • Project Description/Objectives • Existing Conditions • Analysis/Technical Studies Page 31 of 88 • Significant Impacts • Mitigation Measures • Alternatives Item #6.1. 17  Final EIR Contents • The Draft EIR or a revision of Draft EIR • Comments/Recommendations and Response to Comments • List of persons, organizations, and public agencies that provided Page 32 of 88 comments on the Draft EIR • Responses of Lead Agency to significant environmental points raised • Information added by Lead Agency Item #6.1. 18  EIR Certification • Significant Impacts • Findings of Fact • Statement of Overriding Page 33 of 88 Considerations Item #6.1. 19  Public Comment Opportunities Formal Opportunities Informal Opportunities • Notice of Preparation (NOP) • Community Outreach • Draft EIR Review and • Neighborhood Meetings Comment (NOA/NOC) • Informal Meetings Page 34 of 88 • Public Hearings • Workshop/Study Sessions Item #6.1. 20  EIR Review Takeaways Page 35 of 88 Mitigation & Alternatives Analyzing Comments & Recommendations Impacts Item #6.1. 21  Practice Tips Pitfalls Internal Consistency Inconsistency Page 36 of 88 Substantiated Claims Unsubstantiated Claims Current Laws Outdated Approach Proactive Engagement Late Outreach Item #6.1. 22  Item #6.1. QUESTIONS? Page 37 of 88 23 24 CEQA Agency & Other Roles Lead Agency Tribal Individuals Trustee Entity AGE N CY & OTH E R R OL E S Organizations Agency Project Responsible Applicants Agency Page 38 of 88 Determine level of review Provide comments and recommendations Supply information Oversee on applicable topic Provide substantive environmental review areas comments Coordinate with Identify areas of agencies/stakeholders concern Form independent Adopt substantive and conclusions procedural findings Item #6.1. 24  Applicant Role • Proposes Project • Property Interest • Outreach to Neighbors Page 39 of 88 • Implement MMRP & BMPs • Acquire Permits and Approval Item #6.1. 25  City Staff Role • Receives Applications • Manages Consultants • Project Oversight Page 40 of 88 • Prepares Documentation • Makes Recommendations Item #6.1. 26  Consultants Role • Specialty Services • Technical Expertise • Professional Qualifications Page 41 of 88 • Prepares Report • Supports/Advises Item #6.1. 27  Community Members • Community Perspective • Shares Local Knowledge Page 42 of 88 • Provides Comments • Identifies Areas of Concern Item #6.1. 28  Planning Commission Role • Lead Agency Authority • Advisory Board to City Council Page 43 of 88 • Plans and Policy Consistency • Advocates for Community Interests Item #6.1. 29  Lead Agency Role • Determine Level of Environmental Review • Engage in Early Consultation Page 44 of 88 • Evaluate CEQA Compliance • Understand Public Input • Balance CEQA and Project Review Item #6.1. 30  Sovereign Nations Tribal Notification & Consultation AB 52/SB 18 Tribal Heritage Lead Preservation Officer THPO Responds to AB 52/SB 18 Notification Requests Agency (THPO) Consultation Discretionary Project Enters Into Requests info, studies, Application Consultation within provides comments Complete 30 or 90 days and Page 45 of 88 recommendations Provides info Provides Issues AB 52/SB requested (e.g. Recommendations 18 Notification CRS, GPR, Canine) or Requests Revisions Consultation requested within 30 or 90 days Incorporates Findings, MM, Finds Acceptable No Response to AB Recommendations 52/SB 18 Notification No within Consultation 30 or 90 days Tribal Consultation Required Complete? Image source: celebratecalifornia.library.ca.gov/tsupu-the-last-woman-from-petaluma/ Item #6.1. 31  State Agencies and Roles • Review CEQA Documents • Provide expert comments • Issue Permits Page 46 of 88 • Caltrans/SR 29 • CalGEM/Geothermal Wells Item #6.1. 32  Responsible Agency Role • Consider Environmental Documents • Provide Comments/Recommendations • Reach an Independent Conclusion Page 47 of 88 • Issue Permits Item #6.1. 33  Trustee Agency Role • Protect Public Trust Resources • Review Environmental Documents to Assess Impacts on Trust Resources • Provide Expert Recommendations Page 48 of 88 Item #6.1. 34  Key Takeaways Page 49 of 88 CEQA is a Substantive and Roles and Process Procedural Responsibilities Requirements Item #6.1. 35  Resources opr.ca.gov/ceqa/ opr.ca.gov/ceqa/guidelines/ opr.ca.gov/ceqa/technical-advisories.html ceqanet.opr.ca.gov/ Page 50 of 88 https://www.calistogaca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/planning- amp-building/documents/general-plan-calistoga.pdf https://www.napacounty.gov/1297/Recorder-County-Clerk Item #6.1. 36  Item #6.1. Q&A Discussion Page 51 of 88 37 Page 52 of 88  Item #6.1. Page 53 of 88 1  January 28, 2026 California Environmental Quality Act Workshop City of Calistoga Page 54 of 88 Planning Commission Item #6.1. 2  CEQA Workshop Overview • CEQA Basics • CEQA Process and Document Types • Roles and Responsibilities Page 55 of 88 • Reflections and Wrap Up Item #6.1. 3  CEQA History Page 56 of 88 & Background Item #6.1. This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY 4  What CEQA is A California Law An Informal Tool Page 57 of 88 A Decision- Making Public Framework Participation Item #6.1. 5  What CEQA is Not Stand-Alone Project Veto Approval process Page 58 of 88 Guarantee of a Perfect Obstacle to Environment Development Item #6.1. 6  When CEQA Applies CEQA Applies to Projects: an activity which may cause either a direct physical change in the environment or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment Page 59 of 88 An Activity directly undertaken by any public agency An activity which is supported, in whole or in part, through contracts, grants, subsidies, loans, or other forms of assistance from one or more public agencies An activity that involves the issuance to a person of a lease, permit, license, certificate, or other entitlement for use by one or more public agencies Item #6.1. 7  Major Changes to CEQA (2019) Updated Guidelines Page 60 of 88 VMT GHG Item #6.1. 8  Recent CEQA Changes (2025) SB 131 AB 130 • Applies to rural health clinics, • Urban infill housing development childcare centers, broadband projects infrastructure, clean water projects, • Lot is <20 acres, and project meets at food banks. wildfire risk least one urban use criterion mitigation, public parks and trails Page 61 of 88 • Single-issue CEQA • Consistency with General Plan Land Use and Zoning designations • No exceptions to exemptions apply • Local government must notify tribes affiliated with the project site, after which the tribe has 60 days to enter into consultation • Phase I Environmental Site Assessment as Condition of Approval Item #6.1. • VMT Banking 9  Item #6.1. Segment Pause Page 62 of 88 10  Types of CEQA Documentation Proposed Action/Activity is a Project Streamlining/Exemptions Streamlining/Exemptions Not Applicable Applicable • Special Situations Page 63 of 88 (Article 12) Prepare Initial Study • Exemptions for certain Housing Projects (Article 12.5) • Statutory Exemptions Addendum Negative Mitigated Environmental Declaration Negative (Article 18) 2400 Grant Impact Report Declaration • Categorical Street Wallis Family Exemptions (Article 19) Subdivision Estate Dunaweal Kortum Ranch Vineyard Pump Station Development No Further Review Needed Replacement project Item #6.1. 11  Initial Study Determines whether the Preliminary project may have Analysis / significant environmental Technical effects Studies Page 64 of 88 Informs CEQA Pathway • Negative Declaration • Mitigated Negative Declaration • EIR Item #6.1. 12  Initial Study • Aesthetics • Land Use • Agriculture and Forestry • Mineral Resources • Air Quality • Noise • Biological Resources • Population/Housing • Cultural Resources • Public Services • Energy • Recreation • Transportation Page 65 of 88 • Geology/Soils • Greenhouse Gas Emissions • Tribal Cultural Resources • Hazards/Hazardous Materials • Utilities/Service Systems • Hydrology/Water Quality • Wildfire/Wildland Fire Hazards Item #6.1. 13  Item #6.1. Page 66 of 88 14  Exemptions Statutory Categorical • Created by • Created through Legislature regulatory Process (CEQA Guidelines • Project not subject to section 15300-15333) Page 67 of 88 CEQA even if environmental • Exceptions to impacts are posed Exemptions NOE must be filed following project approval Item #6.1. 15  EIR Process and Procedures 1 Project Submittal 2 Initial Study and scoping • Application(s) submitted to City • Prepare Initial Study (optional) • City Initiates Municipal Project • Publish a Notice of Preparation (NOP) • City determines EIR is required • Hold scoping meeting 3 EIR Preparation 4 Draft EIR Public Review Page 68 of 88 • Consult and/or city staff prepare EIR • Notice of Completion (NOC) and • Analyze potential project impacts on Draft EIR available for public review various environmental factors and comment (45 days) • Project Alternatives • Public hearing(s) may be held • Lead agency considers comments 5 Final EIR Certification • Final EIR Certified • Lead Agency makes findings • Lead Agency adopts statement of overriding considerations, if Item #6.1. necessary • Compliance with mitigation measures 16  Draft EIR Contents • Proposed Actions/Consequences • Project Description/Objectives • Existing Conditions • Analysis/Technical Studies Page 69 of 88 • Significant Impacts • Mitigation Measures • Alternatives Item #6.1. 17  Final EIR Contents • The Draft EIR or a revision of Draft EIR • Comments/Recommendations and Response to Comments • List of persons, organizations, and public agencies that provided Page 70 of 88 comments on the Draft EIR • Responses of Lead Agency to significant environmental points raised • Information added by Lead Agency Item #6.1. 18  EIR Certification • Significant Impacts • Findings of Fact • Statement of Overriding Page 71 of 88 Considerations Item #6.1. 19  Public Comment Opportunities Formal Opportunities Informal Opportunities • Notice of Preparation (NOP) • Community Outreach • Draft EIR Review and • Neighborhood Meetings Comment (NOA/NOC) • Informal Meetings Page 72 of 88 • Public Hearings • Workshop/Study Sessions Item #6.1. 20  EIR Review Takeaways Page 73 of 88 Mitigation & Alternatives Analyzing Comments & Recommendations Impacts Item #6.1. 21  Practice Tips Pitfalls Internal Consistency Inconsistency Page 74 of 88 Substantiated Claims Unsubstantiated Claims Current Laws Outdated Approach Proactive Engagement Late Outreach Item #6.1. 22  Item #6.1. QUESTIONS? Page 75 of 88 23 24 CEQA Agency & Other Roles Lead Agency Tribal Individuals Trustee Entity AGE N CY & OTH E R R OL E S Organizations Agency Project Responsible Applicants Agency Page 76 of 88 Determine level of review Provide comments and recommendations Supply information Oversee on applicable topic Provide substantive environmental review areas comments Coordinate with Identify areas of agencies/stakeholders concern Form independent Adopt substantive and conclusions procedural findings Item #6.1. 24  Applicant Role • Proposes Project • Property Interest • Outreach to Neighbors Page 77 of 88 • Implement MMRP & BMPs • Acquire Permits and Approval Item #6.1. 25  City Staff Role • Receives Applications • Manages Consultants • Project Oversight Page 78 of 88 • Prepares Documentation • Makes Recommendations Item #6.1. 26  Consultants Role • Specialty Services • Technical Expertise • Professional Qualifications Page 79 of 88 • Prepares Report • Supports/Advises Item #6.1. 27  Community Members • Community Perspective • Shares Local Knowledge Page 80 of 88 • Provides Comments • Identifies Areas of Concern Item #6.1. 28  Planning Commission Role • Lead Agency Authority • Advisory Board to City Council Page 81 of 88 • Plans and Policy Consistency • Advocates for Community Interests Item #6.1. 29  Lead Agency Role • Determine Level of Environmental Review • Engage in Early Consultation Page 82 of 88 • Evaluate CEQA Compliance • Understand Public Input • Balance CEQA and Project Review Item #6.1. 30  Sovereign Nations Tribal Notification & Consultation AB 52/SB 18 Tribal Heritage Lead Preservation Officer THPO Responds to AB 52/SB 18 Notification Requests Agency (THPO) Consultation Discretionary Project Enters Into Requests info, studies, Application Consultation within provides comments Complete 30 or 90 days and Page 83 of 88 recommendations Provides info Provides Issues AB 52/SB requested (e.g. Recommendations 18 Notification CRS, GPR, Canine) or Requests Revisions Consultation requested within 30 or 90 days Incorporates Findings, MM, Finds Acceptable No Response to AB Recommendations 52/SB 18 Notification No within Consultation 30 or 90 days Tribal Consultation Required Complete? Image source: celebratecalifornia.library.ca.gov/tsupu-the-last-woman-from-petaluma/ Item #6.1. 31  State Agencies and Roles • Review CEQA Documents • Provide expert comments • Issue Permits Page 84 of 88 • Caltrans/SR 29 • CalGEM/Geothermal Wells Item #6.1. 32  Responsible Agency Role • Consider Environmental Documents • Provide Comments/Recommendations • Reach an Independent Conclusion Page 85 of 88 • Issue Permits Item #6.1. 33  Trustee Agency Role • Protect Public Trust Resources • Review Environmental Documents to Assess Impacts on Trust Resources • Provide Expert Recommendations Page 86 of 88 Item #6.1. 34  Key Takeaways Page 87 of 88 CEQA is a Substantive and Roles and Process Procedural Responsibilities Requirements Item #6.1. 35  Resources opr.ca.gov/ceqa/ opr.ca.gov/ceqa/guidelines/ opr.ca.gov/ceqa/technical-advisories.html ceqanet.opr.ca.gov/ Page 88 of 88 https://www.calistogaca.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/planning- amp-building/documents/general-plan-calistoga.pdf https://www.napacounty.gov/1297/Recorder-County-Clerk Item #6.1. 36  Item #6.1. Q&A Discussion Page 89 of 88 37