Plymouth – The Plymouth City Council last week took comments from several large-property landowners whose ranches touch on the outskirts of the city, then took planners’ advice to approve its General Plan and Final EIR. They approved both, ending a 3-year job of updating the General Plan, which will guide the city for the next 16 years. Amador County Agriculture Commissioner Mike Boitano spoke in the public hearing on ag buffers around developments. He said what caught his eye was developers saying a “single, 6-foot, non-climb fence was adequate buffer for agriculture.” His biggest concern was that the city did not tie itself “to any one method” for buffers, because they need the flexibility to create buffers on a case-by-case basis. Boitano said as ag commissioner, it was his job to regulate pesticide laws. He said: “Placement of schools and parks up against range land or production ag land will affect the ranch or farm,” and his “hands are tied.” He said he would like to see a lot of space, such as a 300-foot buffer, but “at least you have them talking to each other.” Rancher William Greer told the council he owns a 1,100-acre ranch in Plymouth’s “planning area,” and he said he doesn’t believe the language in the General Plan and EIR is specific enough. He was concerned about residential impact on ag land, including dogs chasing his 340 steers, trash, and fire. He also dispelled rumors. He said he is a board member of JTS Communities, but is not planning to put a golf course on his ranch. He said: “I am never going to develop my ranch, and I have applied for a rangeland trust agreement.” He said he spoke with Reeder, whose development is next to Greer’s ranch. He said “Bob’s a great guy, but what if he goes away?” Reeder is planning to annex his developments into Plymouth. Greer said he is looking for a buffer and a fence.” Greer and others requested a buffer ordinance. Planner Paula Daneluk said “what we’re hearing tonight is project-specific issues.” She said the “planning area” designation in the General Plan gave the city no power over the land in it. Greer and others asked for better notification of city business that might affect their property. Daneluk said Greer could ask City Clerk Gloria Stoddard notify him whenever his land is subject to potential impact. Story by Jim Reece This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.