Kortum Ranch Development Project

The Kortum Ranch Development Project, managed by the City of Calistoga, involves the subdivision of four existing parcels totaling 30.11 acres into 20 individual lots. These lots, ranging from 0.40 to 6.29 acres, are designed to accommodate single-family detached residences between 2,500 and 4,500 square feet. The scope of work includes on-site road and utility improvements, the construction of retaining walls, and off-site improvements on Kortum Canyon Road and Terrace Drive. Primary access to the site will be via Kortum Canyon Road, while Silver Street is reserved for emergency vehicle access and the occupant of Lot 20. The project is subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), with a Final Environmental Impact Report and Notice of Determination confirming that the project meets environmental standards. Key requirements include the use of hillside-sensitive design for all future homes and compliance with Title 14 specifications and Calistoga Municipal Code Chapter 15.36 for fire safety. Specific operational mandates include the development of a Final Wildland Fire Protection Plan, adherence to ADA standards for impacted Caltrans facilities, and the maintenance of bicycle and pedestrian access during construction. Additionally, the project requires biological surveys for Northern Spotted Owls and the implementation of a temporary suspension of ground-disturbing activities should significant cultural materials be discovered.