The long-proposed Wicklow project behind Kmart in Martell is about to become Amador County property. On August 11, the Amador County Planning Commission voted 5-0 to reject the project, a proposal for 700 houses, condominiums, and apartments plus commercial and industrial sites on 201 acres.

Developer John Lemke appealed the decision. But shortly before the Amador County Board of Supervisors was scheduled to hear his appeal, Umpqua Bank foreclosed on the land and Lemke lost the property.

A few weeks later, Amador County took steps to buy the land as the possible location for a new jail. The property will likely require rezoning to allow that use.

Although we are glad to see this poorly planned development gone, we are concerned that locating the jail next to homes may create a different kind of land-use conflict.

We hope the county will take advantage of the long-standing local interest in the site to develop a community-based plan for the property. Such a plan could address local residents’ concerns, protect key resources, and ensure a positive outcome for everyone, including the neighboring ranchers.

We will continue to work with all of the interested parties to protect this archetypal foothill oak woodland property and promote sensible, community-based planning for the area.