The Fort Bragg City Council has unanimously approved an 87-unit apartment complex, in what officials say marks the city’s largest new development in more than two decades.
The decision, made at the council’s most recent meeting, comes as cities across California face increasing pressure from the state to approve new housing. The project will be built on a 2.7-acre site formerly used as a dairy along State Highway 1, just south of the Noyo River Bridge. Kosh Grewal, who also owns the nearby Emerald Dolphin Inn, is the developer.
City planning consultant Marie Jones told council members that state laws limit their ability to reject such proposals.
“If the city wants to deny this project and the applicant decides to take the city to court, fines can be up to $10,000 per unit plus recovered attorneys’ fees,” Jones said. “I don’t mean to scare you, but I want the city council and the public to understand the state law constraints.”
The Fort Bragg Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the development.
While many residents acknowledged the need for more housing, the project drew criticism over traffic concerns, stormwater runoff, building height, and compliance with the city’s general plan.
Paul Clark, a Fort Bragg resident for nearly 50 years and a former planning commissioner, questioned whether the project fit the city’s zoning laws.
“This is not a commercial mix; it is a residential property. It should be rezoned if that’s what you want to do,” he said. “It’s unfortunate that the developers are doing this, but they don’t understand the community quite yet.”
Still, local business owners and city officials emphasized the pressing need for housing, particularly for workers.
“One of my main concerns as an employer is how difficult it is to have people come in at an entry level and be able to find a place to live,” said Tim Bosma, owner of Harvest Market. “I have lost employees because they cannot find a place to live out here.”
Vice Mayor Marcia Rafanan acknowledged change can be difficult for residents but said growth is necessary to support local families as well as employees seeking to settle in Fort Bragg.
“We can’t keep on going with no change,” she said. “We want to see Fort Bragg grow to some extent. Hopefully, I can see my kids and great nephews stay here instead of moving away.”
Councilmember Lindy Peters said the project could support the nearby Mendocino College Coast Center, just steps from the site.
“One of the things we’d like to see is the college expand — more courses, a nursing program, a marine environment program,” Peters said. “Where are these students going to live?”
Peters also noted that since the project is located within the coastal zone, opponents may appeal to the California Coastal Commission.
The project passed with a unanimous vote from the four voting members. Councilmember Scott Hockett recused himself, citing a conflict of interest due to owning nearby property.
