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Public raises election administration, cannabis‑near‑schools and trail maintenance concerns during public comment
Summary
At the Oct. 7 meeting, residents told supervisors they are worried about Senate Bill 851 and voter‑roll accuracy, cannabis businesses near schools, and unrepaired Kern River equestrian trails; officials directed some to staff for follow‑up and noted county ordinance prohibiting storefront dispensaries in unincorporated areas.
Members of the public used the board's public comment period on Oct. 7 to raise concerns about local election administration, cannabis businesses near schools and damaged equestrian trails.
Charles Shen, a retired Marine, and Glenn Clayton and Dennis McClain spoke about recent changes in state election law and potential impacts on local certification authority. Clayton cited provisions in Senate Bill 851 and asked whether Kern County Elections could prepare a public guide for the county website similar to one used in Santa Cruz. "Senate bill 8 51 ... added statements ... that an elections official or a governing board does not have the authority to refuse to certify an election," Clayton said in his remarks.
Mercy Pena raised concerns about cannabis operations she identified near Vista West High School and asked the board to have law enforcement or county staff examine the matter. Supervisor Jeff Flores replied that county ordinance prohibits storefront dispensaries in unincorporated Kern County and pledged to have staff research whether the specific location is in city limits or county jurisdiction and follow up with law enforcement if appropriate.
Curtis Harms of the Backcountry Horseman of California requested a future discussion about Kern River equestrian trail repairs after storm damage and said his group has photographs documenting impassable sections. Supervisor Couch and CAO staff were directed to take contact information and coordinate with the parks division.
The board thanked commenters and directed staff to follow up where appropriate; no formal action was taken on these public comment items during the meeting.
