Fort Bragg’s police department is under new leadership as Eric Swift takes over as Interim Chief. Sworn in Wednesday, Swift brings more than 20 years of experience, including service in Georgia, Napa County, and Santa Rosa. City officials say he’ll guide the department through the transition while a permanent chief is recruited. The search runs through December and will include opportunities for residents to share what they want in the next chief.
That helicopter activity over Bell Springs Road last week has now been tied to a major cannabis bust. Wildlife officers say they pulled more than 10,000 plants, over 600 pounds of processed pot, and several guns from three sites in the area. Scientists also found serious environmental damage, including illegal water diversions that put steelhead and frogs at risk. Four people were detained, and the case is now in the hands of the Mendocino County DA.
Cal Fire is a passing along a warning for beachgoers… The National Weather Service wants you to be extra careful, large waves remain a risk along the North Coast through today. Large swells on steep beaches can catch people off guard, so officials say to stay alert and never turn your back on the ocean. Light rain showers will also hang around through today, though forecasters say totals should be minimal. Authorities say It’s a good couple of days to enjoy the view but keep a safe distance from the surf.
While the federal government shutdown has many services on pause, the Northern Circle Indian Housing Authority in Ukiah says it’s business as usual. Executive Director Christine De Los Santos assured families Wednesday that rental help, housing programs, and other support will keep running without a hitch. The agency has been helping tribal members find affordable housing since 1979. Leaders say they’ll keep residents posted but remain hopeful Washington finds a solution soon.
Clearlake’s City Council meets tonight at 6, and some big decisions are on the table. Councilmembers will weigh in on joining Sonoma Clean Power and are expected to formally pull back approvals for a hotel and road project after a state appeals court sided with the Koi Nation. They’ll also look at possible changes to the city’s fee schedule for the next budget year. The meeting takes place at City Hall and can also be streamed live on YouTube or joined on Zoom.
Lake County’s volunteer firefighters are bringing back their popular Oyster Feed this Saturday, October 4, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Maynard’s in Lower Lake. Dave’s famous oysters are on the menu, with tickets priced at $25 a dozen or $15 for a half-dozen. The afternoon will also include live music and plenty of community spirit, all in support of local firefighters. Tickets can be picked up at Station 70 in Clearlake or from any firefighter association member.
Deportations are climbing in California, with roughly 5,500 people removed in the first seven months of this year. UC Berkeley researchers say that figure leaves out another 900 who left voluntarily. Nationwide, about 143,000 people were deported in the same stretch. Critics point out that many of those deported had no criminal history, raising questions about ICE’s claims that it’s focusing on dangerous offenders.
