Residents demand action on Little River Airport Road safety and maintenance concerns

The Mendocino County Board of Supervisors convened on April 8, 2025, to address various community concerns and proposals. The meeting featured public comments that highlighted significant issues affecting local residents.

The session began with Bill Barksdale, who raised serious allegations against District Attorney David Eister, accusing him of misusing taxpayer funds for lavish banquets and extending his term without voter approval. Barksdale called for Eister's immediate termination, paralleling his concerns with previous dismissals of other officials.

Following Barksdale, Alex Bland expressed opposition to the potential establishment of a Hobby Lobby store in Ukiah, citing the company's financial support for anti-LGBTQ organizations. Bland argued that allowing Hobby Lobby to operate in the community would contradict Ukiah's values of inclusivity and freedom of expression.

The meeting then shifted focus to infrastructure concerns, with Kevin Radley, a resident of District 5, advocating for the repair of Little River Airport Road. Radley emphasized the road's importance as a critical evacuation route during emergencies, noting that it has not seen significant repairs in years. He presented a petition with community support for the road's repaving, highlighting its role in ensuring safety for residents.

Paula Patterson, also from Little River, echoed Radley's sentiments, pointing out the disparity in funding allocations for road repairs in the county. She noted that despite the high traffic on Little River Airport Road, other roads have received more attention and funding. Patterson urged the Board to consider the revenue generated from the nearby airport as a potential source for road maintenance.

The meeting concluded with a call for the Board to prioritize the repair of Little River Airport Road, reflecting the community's urgent need for improved infrastructure. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by residents in Mendocino County, particularly regarding governance and public safety.