Segment One: A proposed noise ordinance
At the latest meeting of the Ukiah County Board of Supervisors, Supervisor Glenn McGourty introduced a proposal for a new noise ordinance aimed at addressing loud disturbances. The ordinance received strong support from the board but faced opposition from a resident, Maureen Phillips, who passionately defended her roosters.
“I wasn't gonna speak, but I'm here to save my roosters,” Phillips said, referring to her birds, Donald and Richard. She described the roosters as essential protectors of her property, warning her of intruders and wildlife threats. Phillips also expressed concerns about potential legal and financial repercussions from noise complaints, fearing that vindictive neighbors could file frequent complaints, leaving her with hefty legal fees if they were able to prove that the decibel level of her roosters was interfering with their sleep and ability to enjoy their own properties.
Supervisor Ted Williams clarified that the ordinance is not intended to target residents' pets but rather to provide law enforcement with tools to address ongoing noise issues, particularly at events that require a permit and also when noise interferes a neighbor's ability to live their lives. After further discussion, the board voted unanimously to advance the ordinance.
See the expanded version of this story.
Segment Two: Ukiah Receives $1.4 Million Grant for Urban Forest and Tree Planting Initiative
In other local news, the city of Ukiah has been awarded a $1.4 million grant to fund an urban forestry project aimed at addressing climate change and promoting environmental sustainability. The grant is part of a $31 million statewide initiative under the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, designed to support climate resilience efforts across California.
The city plans to plant over 700 trees as part of the project, with 400 trees being planted on city-owned properties like parks and recreation centers. Chief Resilience Officer Blake Adams outlined plans to involve the community in the process, including weekend planting events where volunteers will help plant around 200 trees.
“A big portion of the program requires us to engage with the community in a meaningful way,” Adams said. “We’re planning mass planting events where folks can come out, learn about the value of trees, and help us plant them.”
The grant will also support additional programs, including a "Ditch Your Lawn" initiative providing $50,000 to help low-income households plant trees on private property and a "Green Parking Lots" program offering $75,000 to small businesses for tree planting around their stores. Additionally, improvements will be made to the city's rail trail and the Great Redwood Trail Corridor.
The funding will also create three new jobs within the city, including a program manager for the climate-resilient forest project. While the grant covers a three-year period, Adams emphasized that public feedback will shape the project's long-term success. "It’s really great. It’s gonna mean a lot to the community,” he said.
The city’s initiative marks a significant step in making Ukiah greener and more climate-resilient.