Commission approves North County transfer and recycling station on capped landfill; county notes safety and tree mitigation conditions

Staff presented a combined development permit and zoning variance for a Salinas Valley Solid Waste Authority (SVSWA) transfer and recycling station on a capped landfill parcel at Crazy Horse Canyon. The proposal includes two large tension‑fabric covered buildings, a reuse of an existing metal building for household hazardous waste and new circulation, scales and tanks. SVSWA general manager Cesar Suniga testified to community benefits and lower per‑ton fees compared with private alternatives: "We charge $18 for up to 500 pounds," he said, noting the authority aims to restore affordable disposal options for North County residents.

Staff and the applicant described required entrance widening, traffic calming islands and conditions for grading on previously manmade slopes. An arborist report identified three protected coast live oaks for removal to accommodate entrance improvements; the applicant proposed replanting areas and a forest management plan. The commission found the environmental review (negative declaration adopted by SVSWA) adequate for the project scope and approved the permit and variance with conditions addressing road improvements, construction traffic control and tree protections.