Advisory Commissions & Committees

The Planning Commission serves as an advisory entity appointed by the City Council, tasked with guiding both the short-term and long-term growth and development of the City of Calistoga. Comprising five members from the community, the Commission's primary responsibility is to evaluate the implications of land use decisions on the City. In fulfilling this role, the Commission possesses review and approval authority over design reviews, use permits, variances, zoning amendments, and planned developments.

The Planning Commission is integral to the planning process in three significant ways. First, it functions as an advisory board to the City Council on all matters pertaining to planning and development. Second, the Commission ensures that all land use decisions, including individual projects, align with the policies and plans established by the City. In this manner, the implementation of community vision is achieved incrementally, project by project. Third, the Commission advocates for the collective interests of community members concerning land use and development policies and initiatives.

Meetings: The second and fourth Wednesday of every month at 5:30 P.M. in regular session at the Calistoga Community Center located at 1307 Washington Street, Calistoga, CA 94515

The Green Committee was established in September of 2011 by resolution of the City Council (Resolution No. 2011-092). The Committee serves an advisory role to both the City Council and the Planning Commission, dedicating its efforts to the support of the City General Plan Open Space and Conservation Element, the City Climate Action Plan, and the priorities established by the City Council, as well as regional climate initiatives. The Committee's work is concentrated on mitigating the impacts of climate change by striving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance the sequestration of atmospheric carbon dioxide. Furthermore, the Committee provides guidance to the City Council on policies and programs that facilitate climate adaptation planning and promote effective strategies for addressing the repercussions of climate change. The overarching aim of the Committee is to foster an environmentally sustainable community and to enhance the quality of life in Calistoga.

Meetings: The second Tuesday of each month at 3:30 P.M. in regular session at the Calistoga Community Center located at 1307 Washington Street, Calistoga, CA 94515

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee was established in June of 1993 by resolution of the City Council (Resolution No. 2013-33). The Committee operates in an advisory role to the City Council and Planning Commission, focusing its efforts on the support of the City General Plan Circulation Element, the priorities set forth by the City Council, and regional active transportation initiatives. This committee emphasizes the importance of developing safe, continuous, direct, and convenient networks for bicycling and walking, ensuring accessibility for individuals of all ages and abilities. In its considerations of active transportation, the committee prioritizes the mobility, sustainability, and efficiency of existing transportation systems, while also seeking to expand opportunities for bicycling, walking, and other active modes of transportation within the City of Calistoga.

Meetings: The first Wednesday of every month at 4:00 P.M. in regular session at the Calistoga Community Center located at 1307 Washington Street, Calistoga, CA 94515

The Housing Advisory Committee was established in April 2021 through a resolution of the City Council (Resolution No. 2021-022). This Committee functions in an advisory capacity to both the City Council and the Planning Commission, dedicating its efforts to supporting the City General Plan Housing Element and the housing priorities articulated by the City Council. The primary objective of the Committee is to advise on and support items outlined in the City’s Housing Element, as mandated by the California Department of Housing & Community Development. Additionally, the Committee focuses on providing informed advice and recommendations for the effective implementation of policies and programs that facilitate the expansion of balanced housing opportunities.

Meetings: The third Monday of each month at 12:00 P.M. at the Calistoga Community Center located at 1307 Washington Street, Calistoga, CA 94515

The Fairgrounds Advisory Committee was established in March 2025 by resolution No. 2025-20. The Committee operates in an advisory role to the City Council and the Fairgrounds Director, focusing on providing ongoing advice, research and recommendations to Council to assist in the revitalization of the Calistoga Fairgrounds.

Meetings: The last Thursday of every month at 6:00 P.M. in regular session at the Calistoga Fairgrounds in the Tubbs Building located at 1435 N. Oak Street, Calistoga, CA 94515