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Del Norte supervisors express opposition to offshore drilling but stop short of a formal resolution
Summary
Supervisors discussed options ranging from adopting a formal anti‑drilling resolution to monitoring federal actions; board members voiced opposition but decided to direct staff to monitor BOEM/federal developments and report back rather than immediately adopt a resolution.
The Del Norte County Board of Supervisors debated whether to adopt a formal county position on proposed offshore leasing and related federal actions, with most members expressing opposition but stopping short of a formal resolution at this meeting.
Supervisor Starkey introduced the item, outlining options including adoption of a resolution consistent with most coastal counties, joining regional or statewide coalitions, or submitting formal comments to federal agencies. "On its face, I'm against offshore drilling," Supervisor Starkey said, adding he brought the item to open discussion and to determine whether the board wanted to act now or gather more information.
Supervisor Howard urged caution about adopting a formal position because he said the federal process and political context remain uncertain; he cited BOEM materials and news coverage and said the Elk River Basin has not been well studied since the 1960s. "We don't know enough yet," Howard said, adding that a neutral posture while staff monitors and prepares comments may protect the county’s ability to seek federal funding for local projects.
Several supervisors said they favor monitoring federal activity and preparing staff to respond if and when leases or proposals would affect county shores or on‑shore impacts. Board members also discussed AB 1536 (as referenced in the report) and possible state tools to limit certain on‑shore consequences.
Public comment included speakers urging the board to take an explicit stand rather than remain neutral and others urging consistent energy‑policy stances across potential offshore projects. After public comment the board reported broad opposition to offshore drilling in principle but voted only to direct staff to track federal developments and report back before taking formal legal or policy action.
No formal resolution or binding policy change was adopted at the meeting; staff were asked to monitor federal actions and return options for formal action if appropriate.
