Petition for Vested Rights

Rise Grass Valley filed a petition for recognition of vested rights to conduct mining operations at the Idaho Maryland Mine. The petition was submitted to the County on Friday, September 1. 

Next Step:

The Board of Supervisors will hold a hearing on the petition on Wednesday, December 13, at 9:00 a.m. in the Board chambers, 950 Maidu Ave., Nevada City; with a second day added Thursday, December 14, beginning at 9:00 a.m. if necessary to accommodate public testimony and Board deliberation.  

The hearing will include presentations from County staff and the applicant, questions from County Supervisors, and public comment.  

The Board is expected to make a final determination on whether the petition for vested rights is valid. The Board will make the determination by reviewing the facts of the historical use of the mine property and the law.  

If the Board approves the petition, the next step would be consideration of a reclamation plan, which would explain in detail how the applicant would operate the mine. In addition, Rise Grass Valley would need to provide a statement of responsibility and financial assurances that the applicant could cover potential damages.  

If the Board denies the petition, the County will schedule a noticed public hearing to consider the original proposal to reopen the Idaho Maryland Mine in early December. 

Documents: 

Rise Grass Valley’s petition for recognition of vested rights is available for public review online (see below) or at the Community Development Agency, 950 Maidu Ave., Nevada City.