California Senate Bill SB365

California 2017-2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/17
• Refer: 2/23/17
• Report Pass: 3/29/17
• Refer: 3/29/17
• Engrossed: 5/15/17
• Refer: 5/26/17
• Report Pass: 7/3/17
• Enrolled: 8/21/17
• Chaptered: 9/1/17
• Passed: 9/1/17

Caption

Regional park and open-space districts: County of Solano.

Impact

The adoption of SB365 will significantly impact state laws by allowing the Board of Supervisors of the County of Solano to initiate the formation of a regional district through a resolution. This action is a departure from traditional procedures that generally require a petition process, thereby streamlining the establishment of such districts. The bill stipulates that an election must be held to formalize the creation of the district and outlines the requirement for public input through noticed hearings. This process serves to uphold democratic principles while ensuring that the region can manage its recreational areas more effectively.

Summary

Senate Bill 365, introduced by Senator Dodd, focuses on the creation of regional park and open-space districts within the County of Solano. The bill seeks to address the growing interest in safeguarding the natural and open-space areas in the region. By providing a framework for forming a regional district, SB365 aims to enhance public access to recreational areas, thus improving opportunities for activities like hiking and enjoying the natural surroundings. This legislation indicates a proactive approach to manage open spaces and regional parks to meet the community's recreation needs.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment surrounding SB365 appears to be supportive, especially in terms of local interest in preserving natural areas and enhancing recreational options. The bill caters to the desire for increased accessibility to parks and open spaces, reflecting a community-driven approach to environmental stewardship. Nevertheless, discussions may inevitably arise regarding funding sources, implementation timelines, and the governance structure of the newly formed districts, which could evoke diverse opinions among stakeholders.

Contention

Notable points of contention may center around the governance model proposed in SB365. While initially, the Board of Supervisors will act as the governing body for the regional district, provisions are made for establishing an elected board of directors after a certain period. Critics may express concerns about the lack of local electoral control during the initial phase and the implications this has for community engagement. Furthermore, the bill explicitly states that the district will not have eminent domain powers, which could be a contentious issue depending on future development needs within the region.