During the Clearlake City Council meeting on May 4, 2023, a significant discussion centered on the adoption of interim policies and procedures for tribal consultation. City Manager Alan Flora introduced the topic, highlighting the need for a simplified framework to guide the city in its obligations to consult with Native American tribes regarding projects that may impact tribal cultural resources.

Consultant Lisa Westwood, who was unable to attend in person, provided a video overview explaining the importance of these guidelines. She emphasized that the city is required by California law to engage with culturally affiliated tribes during the environmental review process for both public and private projects. The interim guidelines aim to provide city staff with tools such as tracking forms and flowcharts to ensure compliance with these legal obligations while formal guidelines are developed through collaboration with the tribes.

Public comment was invited, with Dino Beltran from the Kaweah Nation expressing support for the interim guidelines but also urging the city to refine them based on tribal feedback. He stressed the importance of true government-to-government consultation and highlighted the need for a more comprehensive rate policy for tribal monitoring, which he argued should be developed in consultation with the tribes rather than adopted hastily.

The council members engaged in a robust discussion about the interim guidelines, with several expressing the need for flexibility in the proposed monitoring rates and the importance of establishing a clear and fair process for tribal consultation. Ultimately, the council unanimously voted to adopt the interim tribal consultation procedures, marking a crucial step forward in the city’s efforts to respect and protect tribal cultural resources while navigating the complexities of development projects.

The council's decision reflects a commitment to fostering a collaborative relationship with local tribes, ensuring that future projects are not only compliant with legal requirements but also respectful of the rich cultural heritage of the Clearlake area. The city plans to initiate further consultations with tribes to develop more comprehensive guidelines in the future.