Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Trails Great Redwood Trail topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board names county representatives to Great Redwood Trail Agency in 3–2 vote
Summary
After hearing two dozen applicants, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors appointed a county supervisor and a community member to the Great Redwood Trail Agency board, citing experience with local trail priorities; the vote was 3–2.
The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors appointed two at‑large representatives to the Great Redwood Trail Agency after a lengthy application and public hearing process.
Supervisor Madrone moved to appoint Supervisor Wilson along with Carol VanderMeer; the motion passed 3–2 after public testimony and board discussion about geographic balance and tribal sensitivity. Supervisor Madrone, who introduced the motion, said the appointments will “serve our county really well” and emphasized the need for representatives who can advance segments likely to move forward in the near term.
The board heard from 18 applicants who each had two minutes to describe their qualifications; applicants highlighted experience in trails planning, natural‑resource conservation, finance, and community engagement. Several residents urged appointments that would prioritize southern Humboldt and the Eel River valley, while other commenters favored having elected supervisors on the GRTA to ensure close county coordination.
Supervisor Bushnell and others asked how appointments would reflect regional readiness, since the agency’s near‑term work will focus on already advanced segments near Humboldt Bay. Supervisor Arroyo noted the tradeoff between statewide representation and local advocacy, and urged continued outreach to neighboring Trinity County and tribal partners.
On the record: the clerk noted the board voted 3–2 to appoint Supervisor Wilson and Carol VanderMeer to two‑year terms; applications will remain on file and may be considered for future vacancies.
What’s next: The appointments will be transmitted to the Great Redwood Trail Agency; the board’s clerk said applicants will remain active in the county application pool for two years.
