Placer County supervisors on Tuesday voted 4-1 to approve the controversial Martis Valley West project.

Supervisor Jennifer Montgomery, where the 760-unit gate community would be built, voted no.

Opponents, of which there are many, have 30 days from Oct. 11 to file a lawsuit to stop the project. Many expect the courts to eventually weigh in regarding the validity of the environmental document as well as state law.

The supervisors initially voted last month to approve the project.  A few details needed to be worked out, which required the vote today.

County counsel has said the environmental document is sound and is not worried that the Attorney General’s Office said otherwise.

Mountainside Partners of Truckee, the developer, and landowner Sierra Pacific Industries have been working on this project for at least 10 years. Build out is expected to take 20 years.

The project has been controversial because it takes undeveloped land in Truckee that borders Lake Tahoe and turns it into a subdivision for second homeowners. The proponents have said they expect 20 percent or less full-time occupancy.

“The Martis Valley West project is a combined conservation and development plan that serves to complete a remarkable vision,” developer Blake Riva said in a statement. “The project relocates future development to an area adjacent to an existing resort, significantly reduces the amount of allowable density, protects highly coveted open space in the heart of Martis Valley and provides outdoor recreation opportunities for the community.”

Tom Mooers with Sierra Watch stated, “Today’s approval was a vote against everything we love about Martis Valley and North Lake Tahoe. It was also illegal, and we’re committed to take action to defend Tahoe’s incredible scenery and the clarity of the lake itself.”

— Lake Tahoe News staff report