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Adopt an ordinance amending Chapter 2.2-60 of the Solano County Code relating to the Agricultural Grievance Committee
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Published Notice Required? Yes __ _ No __X_
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No _X__
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures recommends that the Board adopt the ordinance to amend Chapter 2.2-60 of the Solano County Code relating to the Agricultural Grievance Committee.
SUMMARY:
At its meeting on June 23, 2015, the Board of Supervisors introduced an ordinance amending Chapter 2.2-60 of the Solano County Code relating to the Agricultural Grievance Committee, including changes in membership. If adopted, the ordinance will become effective on August 28, 2015.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The cost of preparing this report is borne by the Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures. There are no additional costs anticipated to the County associated with the changes in Committee membership.
DISCUSSION:
As the regional economy recovers, economic activity is resuming throughout Solano County with potential build outs within the spheres of influence of Solano County cities. Additionally, new agricultural enterprises are moving to Solano County, and existing farms and nurseries are expanding production in response to more favorable markets. The Agricultural Grievance Committee (AGC) may be convened to handle issues arising from the rural residential interface and also issues related to farming practices in rural areas. The ability to mediate and arbitrate in such situations is to the benefit of both the producers and to the public. The continued existence of the AGC provides a tool for leveraging cooperation with the mediation process as well as an endpoint for exhaustion of administrative remedies. The Board has already acknowledged the need for such a committee and made findings in support of the establishment of such a committee. The Department seeks to rees...
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