Kelseyville residents debate name change amid calls for historical recognition and community healing

A heated discussion unfolded at the Lake County Board of Supervisors meeting on December 10, 2024, as community members voiced their opinions on a controversial proposal to change the name of Kelseyville. The meeting highlighted deep divisions within the community regarding the historical implications of the name and its connection to local Indigenous history.

Several speakers emphasized the need for a name change, arguing that Kelseyville honors a legacy of violence against Native Americans. Buttholin Brown, a member of the Lempomo Scribe, passionately stated, “Americans need to stop honoring its killers by naming universities, cities, towns, institutions, and streets in their names.” He called for continued dialogue to address the historical trauma associated with the name and suggested that a cultural center could facilitate education and healing.

Conversely, some residents expressed concerns about the practical implications of a name change, particularly for the elderly population in Kelseyville. A local resident highlighted the potential hardships for seniors on fixed incomes, stating, “It’s like moving them to another town because they have to change everything, all of their bills, all of their documents.” This sentiment was echoed by others who feared that the name change could exacerbate existing challenges for vulnerable community members.

The Board of Supervisors presented three options for the name change: retaining the name Kelseyville, changing it to Kenoctae, or acknowledging the name as offensive and allowing the community to propose alternatives. The discussions underscored a broader struggle within the community to reconcile its history with the need for healing and progress.

As the meeting concluded, the call for further education and dialogue remained strong, with many advocating for a collaborative approach to finding a new name that reflects the community's values and history. The outcome of this debate could shape the identity of Kelseyville for generations to come.