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Del Norte supervisors unanimously approve letter opposing AB 2356 after extended public debate
Summary
After extensive public comment from tribal representatives, conservationists and local businesses, the Del Norte County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to authorize a board letter of opposition to Assembly Bill 2356, citing concerns about local process, public access and legal conditions on historic land acquisitions.
Chair Borges opened a broad discussion on Assembly Bill 2356, which would convey Tallaha/State Park lands to a tribal nation, and asked the board whether to send a letter of opposition drafted by the county. Several supervisors flagged the primary concern as a lack of local engagement and consultation before the bill reached the legislature.
Supervisor Starkey told the board she opposed the bill’s process and stressed the need for stakeholder outreach in Del Norte County. Supervisor Howard urged a deliberate, non‑polarizing approach, saying the letter communicates that local stakeholders were not consulted. Supervisor Wilson and others urged facilitated local discussions before any legislative action.
Public comment ran for more than an hour. Tribal representatives told the board the transfer seeks to address long‑standing cultural and stewardship issues and said the deed would include restrictive covenants guaranteeing public access and conservation protections. A tribal natural‑resources director urged the board to reconsider opposition, saying customary harvest and fishing access would be preserved under proposed deed restrictions and that state law (cited in comments) continues to govern certain jurisdictions.
Community members and business owners urged the board to protect existing public access, voiced uncertainty about law‑enforcement jurisdiction if lands move to federal trust status, and asked for clear terms guaranteeing continued recreational use. The county Fish and Game Commission representative emphasized that the commission is not categorically opposed to a transfer if public access is maintained.
After hearing from dozens of residents and tribal leaders, Supervisor Short moved to approve the draft opposition letter and authorize the chair to sign it on behalf of the board. The motion was seconded; Kylie (the clerk) polled the board and Supervisors Starkey, Short, Wilson, Howard and Chair Borges voted yes, passing the motion unanimously.
The board recorded that Assemblymember Ramos had reportedly tabled the bill for the year but that tabling did not obviate the need for local discussion. Supervisors asked staff to pursue a facilitated local process with tribal leaders and other stakeholders so that future legislative efforts, if resumed, would reflect county input.
The board’s action was limited to approving the opposition letter; no change to state law or land title occurred at the meeting.
