Jim Comstock
19955 Grange Rd
Middletown CA
707 987 3081

Dear Supervisors,

The Comstock family has deep roots in Northern California agriculture. Members of our family have been farming or ranching here since before the Gold Rush. Specifically in Lake County, our ranching history goes back five generations. We care for this place, this land, and we want to see it continue to prosper through responsible, sustainable agriculture. Ms. Karcey’s Highland Farms project will do just that.

I have come to know Ms. Karcey through our shared advocacy efforts and community outreach. She consistently demonstrates integrity and is a person who stands by her word, making her a trustworthy and respected leader in our community.

Ms. Karcey has designed and built Artemis Co-Pack, a cutting-edge facility in Lower Lake, CA. This groundbreaking operation is the first of its kind, significantly contributing to keeping vital tax revenue within Lake County. By incorporating advanced automated equipment and laboratories, Ms. Karcey has provided the residents of Lake County with opportunities for career advancement in local agriculture—not just jobs. This includes roles such as lab technicians, processing technicians, and directors of manufacturing. Highland Farms represents the type of innovative business that our county should be championing.

I am confident that the Highland Farms project will uphold the high agricultural standards we value in Lake County, featuring engineered greenhouse facilities and clean room-style tissue culture nurseries. Like a rising tide that lifts all ships, the Highland Farms facility will set a new standard, elevating Lake County's cannabis industry.

Additionally, I want to emphasize that Highland Farms does not meet the criteria for an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Requiring one would set an unreasonable precedent for other farms navigating the permitting process. This has already been a nearly four-year journey for Ms. Karcey. When I was supervisor I consistently sought to promote local businesses and make their path to success as easy as possible. This kind of overregulation and delay stifles business growth, exacerbates the challenges, and allows the illicit market to thrive. All while responsible operators stand by at the sidelines watching.

Supporting Highland Farms is crucial to our county’s economic future. I urge you to vote in favor of this important project.

Sincerely,

Jim Comstock

Please support the appeal or the Highland Farms project UP 20-96.