Calaveras Board Split On Burn Fees

San Andreas, CA — The Calaveras County Board of Supervisors appears split on a decision to institute a burn permit fee.

Monday during a study session an informal poll revealed two supervisors against and two for the $12 proposed fee.

The fifth vote, Supervisor Steve Wilensky said he had to check with County Counsel before revealing his stance to clear up a conflict of interest concern. Wilensky is an apple farmer who burns for his operations.

Since Monday Wilensky says there is no conflict of interest but he is checking with local fire chiefs to see how they feel about the fee.

So far, response has been negative. The chiefs feel imposing a fee will only deter residents from acquiring a permit at all.

The board is expected to take a formal action at a later date.

Written by Vanessa Turner.