Commission Discusses Federal Jurisdiction and Land Acquisition for Jamestown Tribe

The Clallam County Charter Review Commission's Land Acquisition Committee convened on August 26, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding land use and jurisdictional powers. The meeting highlighted concerns regarding federal government jurisdiction over local land, particularly in relation to the Jamestown tribe and the implications for community safety and land management.

During the meeting, a commissioner raised the importance of understanding the four levels of jurisdictional powers established by the Eisenhower report in the 1960s. The commissioner emphasized that transferring jurisdiction to the federal government without local input could create conflicts, particularly concerning land use and taxation. This point was reiterated to ensure that the committee considers public input in their deliberations.

John Worthington, a local resident, voiced his objections to recent land acquisitions, arguing that the current location of the Jamestown tribe is vulnerable to natural disasters, such as tsunamis and earthquakes. He suggested that the tribe should relocate to higher ground to mitigate these risks. Worthington expressed frustration that while the tribe acknowledges the need for relocation in other discussions, they have not acted on it in the context of land acquisition.

The committee also addressed procedural matters, including the need for minutes from previous meetings, which were not available due to technical issues. The discussion on training and statutory issues was postponed due to delays in receiving necessary input.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges of balancing federal jurisdiction with local concerns and the importance of community involvement in land acquisition decisions. The committee plans to revisit these topics in future meetings, aiming to ensure that local voices are heard in the decision-making process.