Agenda Item
4f) Noticed Public Hearing - Discussion and Possible Action Including Adoption of Resolution of Abandonment of the Real Property Known as the Mariposa Swimming Hole (APN 107-280-45), Pursuant to the County Park Abandonment Law of 1959
(Sponsor: General Services Agency and County Counsel)
My name is Marybeth Kelly and I’m a 31 year resident of Redwood Valley. I’m outraged that our BOS is contemplating getting rid of public lands, specifically the County park known as Mariposa Swimming Hole.
I think the majority of registered voters in Mendo County also agree, but we have not had enough time to gather the signatures stating so. We got 130 signatures but I’m convinced we could easily get the required 200 signatures if we had more time the few weeks we’ve had.
Every single person I talked with was surprised and outraged when they found out what the county’s plans are. The swimming hole, donated in 1974 for the specific purpose of being a public park. Generations of citizens have enjoyed its cool shaded and picturesque features.
Mariposa Swimming Hole is exactly half of all the parks we have in RV. And the other, Lions Park might also soon be on the chopping block. Our county seems quick to find ways to get rid of public lands. Why not put your efforts towards keeping these valuable lands so that future generations can also enjoy them??
I support the further analysis of the Benefit Assessment process - CSA3 ZoB was ready to send out ballots before the 1 year LAFCo "pause" so should be the easiest to follow through with. Other similar processes can be explored but time is a concern to get the ballot out as soon as possible..
QUESTION for County Counsel - will Initiative 21-0042A1, if approved, have a negative impact on either the CSA3 process or an alternative Benefit Assessment process? CSDA opposes - see BTCSD Resolution 2023-10 opposing 21-0042A1 - suggest that the County create a similar measure opposing this initiative if possible.