County Supervisors Discuss Impact of Assembly Bill 52 on Local Projects

In a pivotal discussion during the Plumas County Board of Supervisors meeting on September 2, 2025, the implications of Assembly Bill 52 (AB 52) and Senate Bill 18 (SB 18) on local projects were brought to the forefront. The conversation centered around the need for environmental documentation and tribal consultation in relation to discretionary projects, highlighting the importance of protecting tribal cultural resources.

A speaker raised questions about whether a specific project qualified under AB 52, which mandates that environmental assessments include inquiries about potential impacts on tribal cultural resources. This includes sites, features, and landscapes of cultural significance to Native California tribes. The speaker expressed a desire for further expertise on the matter, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of the county's geography, especially in light of personal experiences as a survivor of the Dixie Fire.

The discussion clarified that while AB 52 applies to discretionary projects reviewed by the county's zoning administrator, it was determined that the project in question was ministerial and therefore not subject to the same requirements. Additionally, SB 18 was mentioned as another legislative measure requiring tribal consultation for general plan amendments and special plans.

The meeting also featured public comments, including insights from Josh Hart, a spokesperson for Plumas WIRED, who highlighted the group's involvement in telecommunications ordinances. This underscores the ongoing community engagement in local governance and the importance of addressing both environmental and cultural considerations in development projects.

As Plumas County navigates these legislative frameworks, the discussions signal a commitment to integrating tribal perspectives and environmental stewardship into future planning efforts.