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Laguna Woods backs wildlife coexistence bill and seeks transparency for fire hazard zone maps; advances city-sponsored bill
Summary
The council authorized support for SB 1135 (wildlife coexistence) and AB 2517 (fire hazard severity zone process) and updated the city on SB 897, a city‑sponsored bill to expand local uses of abandoned vehicle funds.
At its April 15 meeting the Laguna Woods City Council reviewed three state legislative proposals and authorized staff to convey the city's positions and sign correspondence on behalf of the council.
Staff briefed council on SB 897, a city‑sponsored measure carried by Senator Janet/Choi's office that would enable Laguna Woods to use about $43,000 in service authority abandoned vehicle funds for broader vehicle‑code enforcement uses if enacted. The item was described as having cleared an early committee step without opposition.
Paige Apperson, representing State Senator Catherine Blakespear, requested the city's support for SB 1135, which would establish the California Wildlife Coexistence Act to prioritize humane, science‑based approaches to human‑wildlife conflict and provide the Department of Fish and Wildlife with authority (subject to appropriation) to stand up a statewide coexistence program, a wolf‑livestock compensation program and a technical advisory committee. "SB 1135 would establish the California Wildlife Coexistence Act, making it state policy to prioritize the safe coexistence of people and wildlife," Apperson told the council, describing increased wildlife incidents and a need for technical assistance.
Connor Medina, regional public affairs manager for the League of California Cities (Orange County division), presented AB 2517, a League‑sponsored bill to increase transparency and regular review of fire hazard severity zone mapping, require workshops and allow local agencies to submit land‑use data before finalization. Medina said the bill aims to improve accuracy, public engagement and interagency coordination around maps that trigger code changes and insurance/mitigation consequences.
After presentations and a brief discussion, councilmembers approved a motion to support SB 1135 and AB 2517 and to authorize the city manager and mayor to sign correspondence on SB 897 and related amendments should they remain consistent with the council's intent.
