Planning Commission approves three‑year extension for interim uses at Redwood Marine Terminal 2

The Humboldt County Planning Commission approved a three‑year extension of previously issued interim‑use coastal permits for land known as Redwood Marine Terminal 2, a roughly 100‑acre former pulp‑mill site owned by the Humboldt Bay Harbor Recreation and Conservation District.

Planner Steve Lazar told the commission the interim‑use framework allows temporary, nonpermanent occupancies (storage, boat repair, limited processing and vehicle storage) on coastal industrial parcels while preserving the option for future coastal‑dependent industrial development. Staff reported site visits found existing uses are largely compatible with the conditions of approval and that required mitigation measures — including rare‑plant surveys and mitigation of sensitive areas — remain applicable. Staff recommended approval to extend the permits into 2029.

Commissioners asked about building condition and long‑term redevelopment prospects. Staff and the director remarked that some buildings are deteriorated and were slated for removal under previous approvals, but current interim uses provide income to maintain the property while the district seeks an anchor tenant. After brief discussion staff’s recommendation for a three‑year extension passed on a roll‑call vote.

What the action does: The extension maintains interim‑use allowances and existing mitigation measures, and limits the cumulative allowed interim duration consistent with the county’s interim‑use rules.

What it does not do: The extension does not approve permanent redevelopment; future coastal‑dependent uses retain priority and could displace interim tenants with appropriate notice as required by permit conditions.