While CEQA predominates many local government discussions of climate change, the state has taken a longer view as well, seeking input on strategies for local adaption to climate change. The draft handbook can be found at http://resources.ca.gov/climate_adaptation/docs/APG_-_PUBLIC_DRAFT_4.9.12_small.pdf. A state sponsored webinar will take place on May 15, and comments can be submitted electronically at

In the most recent fee mitigation case, Center for Sierra Nevada Conservation v. County of El Dorado (2012) 202 Cal.App.4th 1156, the Third District Court of Appeal held that a county was required to prepare a tiered EIR before adopting its oak woodland management plan and mitigation fee program.
Continue Reading Approval of Oak Woodland Management Plan and Mitigation Fee Program Based on a Negative Declaration is Overturned by Third District Appellate

The Association of Environmental Professionals will be holding an MCLE as part of its Statewide Conference (May 6-9). Panelists include: Chris Butcher, Thomas Law Group; Braiden Chadwick, Downey Brand, LLP; Diane Kindermann, Abbott & Kindermann, LLP; and Tiffany Wright, Remy Moose Manley, LLP.

Navigating Projects through CEQA and Local Government Biological and Regulatory Policies (

A selling property owner is not automatically entitled to carry forward an older property tax base to replacement property simply because the buyer is carrying out economic activity as part of a redevelopment plan.
Continue Reading Property Owner Fails to Establish Basis For Maintaining Older Property Tax Assessment Following Property Transfer