General Discussion

5/17/2025

Dear Mendocino Fire Safe Council Board Members,

I am writing to express my strong support for the Piercy Fire Safe Council’s application for a Mini-Grant in the amount of $12,500 to create a critical 20-40-foot fuel-break easement along Pepperwoods Springs Road. As the Mendocino County Fourth District Supervisor, I am well aware of the significant challenges that the Piercy community faces in terms of fire protection and emergency response.Piercy is uniquely vulnerable due to its remote location, limited infrastructure, and lack of a nearby Cal Fire station. Unlike neighboring communities such as Leggett, Laytonville, Willits, and Garberville, Piercy relies solely on a small team of four volunteer firefighters to respond to emergencies — the majority of which occur along US Highway 101. Despite these critical demands, the Piercy Fire District receives little property tax revenue due to its diminished tax base, which stems from the decline of once-thriving resorts and businesses along the highway corridor.The proposed fuel-break along Pepperwoods Springs Road is not just a matter of fire safety — it is a lifeline for the Piercy community. This road serves as the only access point for the entire neighborhood, including many senior residents who face increased vulnerability in emergency situations. The necessity for this project became painfully clear during the March 2023 snowstorm, when residents were trapped without access to essential services or emergency evacuation routes.Given that this funding5/2025 is sourced from county tax revenue and a generous $50,000 donation from PG&E, approving this grant would not only enhance the safety and security of Piercy’s residents but also represents a vital investment in the resilience of our most underserved communities. The Piercy Fire Safe Council’s commitment to contributing an additional $10,000 toward the project underscores the urgency and local commitment to this effort.I urge the Mendocino Fire Safe Council to give full and favorable consideration to this application. Your support will provide Piercy with the resources needed to safeguard lives, protect property, and strengthen the community’s ability to withstand future emergencies.Thank you for your consideration and your continued commitment to wildfire prevention and community safety.

Sincerely, Bernie Norvell

Mendocino County Fourth District Supervisornorvellb@mendocinocounty.gov