How to resolve AdBlock issue? City of Lakeport seeks public input on draft Active Transportation Plan
LAKEPORT, Calif. — The city of Lakeport is inviting residents, business owners, and visitors to help shape the future of local transportation.The draft Active Transportation Plan, or ATP, outlines a vision for safer streets, better sidewalks, expanded bike access, and improved public transit, ensuring people of all ages and abilities can move around Lakeport safely and comfortably.
Whether you walk, bike, roll or drive, city officials said they want Lakeport to be safer and easier to get around. Community feedback will help make that happen.
The public comment period is open through May 5.
The draft plan can be reviewed here.
Ways to provide input:
• Email your feedback to
• Drop off written comments at City Hall, 225 Park St., during business hours.
• Attend the public meeting on Monday, May 5, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at City Hall, either in-person or attend remotely via Zoom.
• Visit the city's booth at the Cinco de Mayo Celebration on Saturday, May 4, at Xabatin Park.
The draft ATP is the result of extensive community engagement and expert analysis. It identifies key infrastructure improvements and priority projects to make active transportation safer, more accessible and better connected throughout Lakeport.
For more information, visit the plan link above or contact the Lakeport Public Works Department at
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- Written by: LAKE COUNTY NEWS REPORTS
California takes action to halt golden mussel invasion
In response to the recent detection of golden mussel (Limnoperna fortunei) in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, the state of California has developed a comprehensive plan to address this urgent invasive species threat.
The discovery in October 2024 marked the first known occurrence of golden mussel in North America.
To combat this threat, the framework provides coordinated strategies by multiple California departments to prevent further introduction and spread of golden mussels, as well as to contain and suppress infestations to minimize their impact on the environment, water conveyance, recreation and agriculture.
In addition, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, or CDFW, is offering $1 million in grant funding to boating facility operators to enhance efforts against invasive mussels, particularly the threat of golden mussels. This funding supports projects that help prevent the introduction and spread of invasive mussels in lakes, reservoirs and waterways, ensuring the long-term health of state waters. The grant solicitation can be found on CDFW’s website.
Native to East and Southeast Asia, golden mussels pose a significant threat to California’s natural ecosystems, water infrastructure, agriculture, and economy. The invasive species has already caused major disruptions in other parts of the world, including heavy biofouling of water intake systems, and negative impacts to habitat and wildlife.
“The discovery of golden mussels in California is a serious challenge that requires coordinated action and a long-term commitment,” said CDFW Director Charlton H. Bonham. “This response framework recommends critical steps that must be taken across state, regional and local levels to limit the spread and mitigate the impacts of this invasive species.”
“Taking coordinated action to address this invasive species will help safeguard critical water infrastructure like the State Water Project from the negative impacts golden mussels can pose to water delivery systems,” said John Yarbrough, DWR deputy director for the State Water Project. “Using this new framework and close collaboration with partner agencies, DWR will implement strategies to address this invasive species and minimize impacts by monitoring for the mussels in SWP waters and developing a mitigation plan.”
Reservoir managers across the state are adjusting their recreational plans for the upcoming boating season to address concerns for the golden mussel. “Recreational boating is a significant contributor to California’s economy, and California State Parks’ Division of Boating and Waterways is working diligently with allied industry and agency partners to provide outreach and educational information to boaters and waterbody managers on the importance of the Clean, Drain and Dry message to help protect the state’s waterways from invasive species,” said Division of Boating and Waterways, or DBW, Deputy Director Ramona Fernandez. “DBW recommends boaters contact the waterbody manager to learn of any updated requirements before they head out.”
DBW maintains a list of contacts at https://dbw.parks.ca.gov/inspections.
The response framework developed by the Golden Mussel Task Force is composed of key state and federal agencies, including CDFW, DWR, California State Parks, California Department of Food and Agriculture, and several other federal and local partners.
It outlines a comprehensive strategy to respond to the invasive species, focusing on preventing further introduction, containing mussels within currently infested waters and reducing population within the invaded range where feasible.
Key recommendations in the response framework include:
Containment and prevention measures
• Development of a map of Delta launch sites to prioritize management at high-use sites.
• Investigation of pathways of spread, such as watercraft and overland movement, aquaculture trade, etc.
• Increased inspection and decontamination capacity for watercraft, with expanded training for inspectors.
Education and outreach
• Launch of education campaigns to inform the public about the golden mussel threat and how they can help prevent its spread.
• Posting of signage at waterbodies where golden mussels are present promoting the “Clean, Drain, Dry” practice following and ending every outing.
• Collaboration with businesses that provide watercraft cleaning services to promote industry standards.
Incentives and partnerships
• Promotion of watercraft cleaning services within and around the Delta to assist in controlling the spread of the mussels.
The Golden Mussel Task Force will continue to collaborate to mitigate the impacts of this invasive species and protect the state’s water resources.
Officials said the Golden Mussel Framework is “a dynamic document, evolving with new information and adaptive management strategies.”
For more information or to learn how you can help prevent the spread of golden mussel and report sightings visit: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Invasives/Species/Golden-Mussel.
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- Written by: LAKE COUNTY NEWS REPORTS
Board of Supervisors to discuss Lakeport Fire Protection District appointment and home hardening program
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The Board of Supervisors this week will consider an appointment to fill a vacant seat on the Lakeport Fire Protection District Board of Directors and hear a presentation on the home hardening program by North Coast Opportunities, which aims to increase wildfire resilience in local homes.The board will meet beginning at 9 a.m. Tuesday, April 22, in the board chambers on the first floor of the Lake County Courthouse, 255 N. Forbes St., Lakeport.
The meeting can be watched live on Channel 8, online at https://countyoflake.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx and on the county’s Facebook page. Accompanying board documents, the agenda and archived board meeting videos also are available at that link.
To participate in real-time, join the Zoom meeting by clicking this link.
The meeting ID is 865 3354 4962, pass code 726865. The meeting also can be accessed via one tap mobile at +16694449171,,86533544962#,,,,*726865#. The meeting can also be accessed via phone at 669 900 6833.
At 9:15 a.m., the board will hear an annual presentation by the Lake County PEG TV on their operation and budget update.
At 9:30 a.m., the board will consider the appointment to fill a vacancy on the Lakeport Fire Protection District Board of Directors.
Based on the documents attached to the meeting agenda, applicants to be considered include: Terry Cherney and Joseph Szupellow, who are longtime volunteer firefighters; Gary Deas, a business owner who was also a firefighter from 2006 to 2008 in Solano County; and Jennifer Williams-Richardson, who’s a current board member for Lakeport
Unified School District.
At 10 a.m., the board will consider the presentation by the nonprofit North Coast Opportunities on its home hardening program.
Program manager Deanna Fernweh will present on partnerships, funding, environmental clearances, contractor vetting, current program status and a community overview of home hardening.
“Home hardening is the process of making a residence more resistant to wildfires and ember intrusion. It involves strengthening the structure with fire resistant retrofits and creating defensible space that could ignite during a wildfire,” the staff report explained. “Home hardening is important because it increases a home's chances of surviving and reduces the flame spread to neighboring homes.”
In the untimed items, the board will consider the appointment of current Health Services SafeRx Program Coordinator Mary Gross to the Mental Health Advisory Board.
The board will also consider an advisory board appointment for the Glenbrook Cemetery District.
The full agenda follows.
CONSENT AGENDA
5.1: Adopt a proclamation designating April 2025 as Alcohol Awareness Month in Lake County.
5.2: Adopt proclamation designating April 2025 as California Friday Night Live Month.
5.3: Approve Amendment One to the agreement with Staten Solar Corporation for design, installation, and commissioning of energy conservation facilities serving the Lake County Courthouse Campus, and authorize the chair to sign.
5.4: (a) Approve the purchase of a diesel 6kw LED light tower for use by the Lake Operational Area; and (b) authorize internal budget transfer.
5.5: (a) Adopt the resolution adopting the Emergency Operations Plan for the County of Lake and the Lake County Operational Area and (b) authorize the board chair and sheriff to sign the promulgation letter.
TIMED ITEMS
6.2, 9:03 a.m.: Pet of the week.
6.3, 9:04 a.m.: National Poetry Month poem of the week.
6.4, 9:05 a.m.: Presentation of proclamation designating the month of April 2025 as Alcohol Awareness Month in Lake County.
6.5, 9:08 a.m.: Presentation of proclamation designating the month of April 2025 be recognized as California Friday Night Live Month.
6.6, 9:15 a.m.: Annual Lake County PEG presentation.
6.7, 9:30 a.m.: Consideration of appointment to Lakeport Fire Protection District Board of Directors.
6.8, 10:00 a.m.: Consideration of presentation by North Coast Opportunities home hardening program.
NONTIMED ITEMS
7.2: Consideration of the following advisory board appointment: Mental Health Advisory Board.
7.3: Consideration of the following advisory board appointment: Glenbrook Cemetery District.
7.4: Consideration of contract amendment for Avero Advisors, to continue the ERP/HCM system implementation.
7.5: Consideration of approval to update and revise the County of Lake internship program.
CLOSED SESSION
8.1, 1:30 p.m.: Public employee evaluation: Chief Public Defender Raymond Buenaventura.
8.2: Public employee evaluation: County Counsel Lloyd Guintivano.
8.3: Public employee evaluation: Public Services Director Lars Ewing.
8.4: Conference with labor negotiator: (a) Chief negotiator: C. Torrez; county negotiators: S. Parker, S. Carter, C. Moreno, P. Samac and D. Rico; (b) employee organizations: LCDDAA, LCDSA, LCCOA, LCEA, LCSEA and LCSMA.
8.5: Conference with legal counsel: Existing litigation pursuant to Gov. Code sec. 54956.9 (d)(1) – In Re Wellpath Holdings, Inc., et al.
8.6: Addendum – Conference with legal counsel: Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Gov. Code section 54956.9(d)(2), (e)(1) – One potential case.
Email staff reporter Lingzi Chen at
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- Written by: LINGZI CHEN
Earth Day Celebration takes place in Middletown April 26
MIDDLETOWN, Calif. — Calpine and the Middletown Art Center are joining forces for the third year in a row to present the Earth Day Celebration at the Calpine Geothermal Visitor Center in Middletown on Saturday, April 26, from 1 to 6 p.m.Organizers said the free event is a “joyful gathering of our community that reminds us that by coming together, we deepen our connection to one another and to the earth we share, inspiring collective action to nurture and protect our planet.”
Visitors can enjoy healthy food offerings, face painting by Chayo, a friendly petting zoo, creative art activities led by the Middletown Art Center and the Children’s Museum of Art and Science, and explore educational booths offering valuable information on sustainable living and wellness.
Gardening enthusiasts can enjoy tours and demonstrations with the Middletown Community Garden team and Master Gardener Gabriele O’Neill will be on hand to answer questions and share expert advice on boosting garden productivity.
Shoppers and curious minds alike will appreciate the vibrant marketplace of eco-friendly vendors and wellness-focused booths, featuring a variety of unique items such as tie-dye apparel, silk scarves, crocheted goods, abalone jewelry, sun-catchers, wind chimes, handmade soap and more.
The celebration will be alive with music, first from Robert Stark, then at 4 p.m. Blues Farm, an iconic Lake County rhythm and blues band, will take the stage. Known for their soulful sound and electrifying performances, Blues Farm blends classic blues, funk, and rock influences to create an unforgettable musical experience.
With their deep connection to the region and dynamic stage presence, Blues Farm’s show is sure to be a highlight, offering an energetic and soulful soundtrack to the day’s festivities.
Adding to the excitement, Tyrell Martial Arts will offer a free self-defense class. Throughout the day, thanks to the South Lake County Baggers, informal rounds of corn hole will be available for friendly games and family fun.
A highlight of the event is the Upcycle Competition, where community members will showcase their creativity by transforming discarded materials into imaginative works of art or practical inventions. Attendees will have the chance to vote for their favorite creations, and the winner will be announced at the end of the day. Cash and other prizes will be awarded. This fun and interactive competition is a great way to engage with reusing and recycling which contribute to a more healthy planet.
As part of the Earth Day celebration, they are excited to host a special raffle to support the Middletown Community Garden's newest project — a beautiful gazebo for all to enjoy.
Prizes include a deluxe chicken coop and a handcrafted picnic table, perfect for backyard gatherings. Raffle tickets are just $5 each or 5 for $20, with all proceeds going directly toward the gazebo installation. Don’t miss your chance to win big while helping grow something great in our community.
To join the Upcycle Competition or learn more about the event, visit https://middletownartcenter.org/earthday.html or contact MAC at
Calpine Visitor Center is located at 15500 Central Park Road, Middletown.
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- Written by: LAKE COUNTY NEWS REPORTS
City of Lakeport to host water plant open house on May 7
LAKEPORT, Calif. — The city of Lakeport invites the public to a water plant open house on Wednesday, May 7, from 3 to 7 p.m. at 590 Konocti Ave.This family-friendly event offers the opportunity to tour the city’s state-of-the-art water treatment facility and gain insight into the process of treating Clear Lake water to meet strict drinking water standards.
Attendees will see firsthand how raw lake water is cleaned, tested, and delivered safely to homes and businesses throughout Lakeport.
The open house will include:
• Guided tours of the treatment plant;
• Snacks and light refreshments;
• Balloons and eco-friendly giveaways for children;
• Educational materials on water conservation and public works operations.
“This is a great chance for our community to see the work that goes into providing safe drinking water every day,” said Utilities Director Paul Harris. “We’re proud to show off our facility and help people understand the vital infrastructure behind every drop.”
All ages are welcome. No RSVP is required.
For more information, contact Paul Harris at 707-263-3578 or visit www.cityoflakeport.com.
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- Written by: LAKE COUNTY NEWS REPORTS
