Opponents of a proposed Ukiah Costco have filed a lawsuit, contending the city of Ukiah and Costco failed to adequately consider the massive store's environmental impacts.
"We don't believe the environmental impact report is adequate and we don't believe the city complied with state planning and zoning laws," said attorney William Kopper of Davis, who filed the lawsuit earlier this month on behalf of Ukiah Citizens for Safety First. No court dates have been set, he said.
It's the second attack on the Ukiah Planning Commission's January approval of the project's permit.
Another group has appealed that decision to the Ukiah City Council.
Costco officials hope to open the store in 2015. Before that can happen, the city must make an estimated $4 million in Highway 101 interchange improvements to accommodate extra traffic.
The project has been controversial from the outset.
Critics say they're worried about impacts on traffic, air quality, seasonal wetlands, existing businesses and aesthetics.
Proponents say it will be a boon for area shoppers and city coffers. The store is expected to generate nearly $500,000 in revenue annually for City Hall.
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