Monterey County joins regional OCS coordination group to oppose offshore drilling and seabed mining
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Summary
The Board unanimously approved joining a reconstituted Local Governments Outer Continental Shelf Coordination Program and pledged up to $15,000 (adjustable to $30,000) to support coordinated advocacy against proposed offshore drilling and seabed mining near California shores.
On Jan. 6 the Monterey County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to join a reestablished Local Governments Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Coordination Program and to provide an initial financial contribution to the regional coalition opposing proposals for new offshore drilling and deep‑sea mining near California coasts.
County staff explained the program — led by Santa Cruz County and chaired by Richard Charter — intends to provide coordinated federal representation, pooled resources and joint advocacy during a federal comment and planning process that staff said could move quickly. The board noted the federal government had issued executive orders in 2025 directing agencies to explore new offshore energy and seabed mining opportunities, including off California.
The supervisors approved a draft resolution (based on a template circulated by Santa Cruz) and authorized an initial county contribution of $15,000, with flexibility to increase the amount up to $30,000 if necessary once the coalition finalizes membership and cost‑sharing. The county will return a finalized resolution and identify funding sources.
Supervisors said Monterey County — which has substantial coastal resources and a major marine sanctuary offshore — should be an active member of a coordinated regional effort. The board also noted a public "people's hearing" co‑hosted by conservation groups is scheduled for Jan. 9 in Monterey.
The motion passed unanimously. County staff will finalize the resolution and coordinate with the coalition on next steps for federal engagement and the public comment period.
