Napa planning commission approves new winery on Schellinger Lane despite water appeal challenges

The Napa County Board of Supervisors convened on May 6, 2025, to discuss a contentious winery project that has sparked significant community interest and debate. The proposed winery, located at 155 Schellinger Lane, aims to establish a 30,000-gallon facility with a capacity for 45 visitors daily and plans for various events throughout the year. However, the project has faced scrutiny over its water usage and environmental impact, leading to appeals from local advocacy groups.

Key discussions centered on the project's compliance with water availability regulations. The county's Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) recently reduced water allowances from 1 acre-foot per acre per year to 0.3 acre-feet, significantly impacting the winery's water supply. Despite these changes, the project was designed to adhere to existing water use levels, and the Planning Commission approved a mitigated negative declaration to address potential environmental concerns, including protections for local wildlife.

The winery's approval process has not been without controversy. Opponents, represented by the group Water Audit, raised multiple appeals questioning the adequacy of the water availability analysis and the project's classification as a major modification rather than a new use permit. They argued that the application did not sufficiently demonstrate compliance with state water regulations and that the project could negatively impact local water resources.

County staff defended the project, asserting that it meets all necessary guidelines and that the water use estimates are consistent with county standards. They emphasized that the winery's operations would not exceed the reduced water limits and that measures are in place to monitor and manage water consumption effectively.

In response to community concerns about traffic and access, the Board considered additional conditions to ensure that winery visitors would primarily access the site from Schellinger Lane, addressing potential issues with neighboring properties.

As the meeting concluded, staff recommended that the Board deny the appeals and uphold the Planning Commission's approval, allowing the project to move forward while ensuring compliance with environmental and water use regulations. The Board is expected to revisit the matter in June 2024 for further decisions on the appeals.

This ongoing discussion highlights the delicate balance between agricultural development and environmental stewardship in Napa County, reflecting broader concerns about water sustainability and land use in the region.