POINT ARENA, CA., 2/16/26 — The Point Arena City Council on Tuesday will consider amending the city’s General Plan to add sea level programs and policies in the wake of climate change.
In 2022, Point Arena received a $100,000 grant funding by the California Coastal Commission to carry out an analysis of Arena Cove, home of the Point Arena pier, a longtime hub for fishing and boating.
The city contracted with Environmental Science Associates consulting firm to conduct the study, who also received input from the Coastal Commission, and last May the ESA’s final version of the “Sea-Level Rise Analysis and Vulnerability Assessment” was provided to the city, along with its recommendations. If adopted, the city will need to update the Community Health and Safety Element (CHSE) of Point Arena’s General Plan.
According to the city, the CHSE hasn’t been updated since 1995 and has no mention or consideration for rising sea levels or other effects of climate change. If approved by the City Council, the amendment will provide policy direction for future projects and adaptation efforts in Arena Cove and related coastal areas.
Once approved by the council, it must then go back to the Coastal Commission for possible additions and a final sign-off.
The Point Arena City Council meets Tuesday at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 451 School St., Point Arena. To attend the meeting on Zoom, go to https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88269848341.