Lake County Board rejects Kelseyville name change proposal after 70 percent voter opposition

The Lake County Board of Supervisors convened on December 10, 2024, to address several key agenda items, including a significant discussion regarding the proposed name change of Kelseyville to Kenoctai.

The meeting began with the board approving an amendment to a previous resolution, with all supervisors voting in favor. Following this, the board moved to item 6:11 on the agenda, which involved a draft response to the United States Board on Geographic Names concerning the name change proposal put forth by Citizens For Healing.

Matthew Rothstein, Chief Deputy County Administrative Officer, presented the item, highlighting the results of an advisory measure placed on the November ballot. The measure asked voters whether the board should recommend the name change. The outcome showed a clear opposition, with 70.58% of Lake County registered voters rejecting the proposal.

Rothstein outlined four options for the board's response to the Board on Geographic Names. The first option recommended rejecting the name change based on the advisory vote results. The second option suggested approval of the name change, while the third option proposed no formal recommendation. A fourth option, introduced after the agenda was posted, stated that the board would adopt the results of the advisory vote as the County of Lake's formal recommendation against the name change.

The board engaged in discussions regarding the implications of each option, ultimately recognizing the clear opposition from residents. The meeting concluded with the board agreeing to adopt the fourth option, emphasizing the importance of public sentiment in the decision-making process.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to reflecting the views of Lake County residents in its formal recommendations, particularly regarding significant community issues such as the proposed name change of Kelseyville.