zoning

Expressed concern about fatal traffic accidents and speeding along Victor Valley corridors like Ridgecrest Road and Apple Valley Road.

Voiced opposition to the mining ordinance update, arguing it relinquishes county oversight on federal lands and lacks public input.

Called for a 'no' vote on the mining ordinance, stating that open-pit mining ruins community beauty and health near national parks.

Requested denial of the mining ordinance update until language regarding federal land applicability and CEQA review is clarified.

Spoke against the mining ordinance, highlighting Twenty-Nine Palms' economic renaissance and the threat posed by open pit mines to views and water.

Addressed implementation of CEQA exemptions for mining and urged stricter county adherence to Public Resources Code.

Argued against removing permit processes and local controls, noting from construction experience that removing oversight leads to problems.

A professional biologist who opposed the mining ordinance, arguing that ceding local permitting authority to federal rules harms local communities.

Requested continuance of Item 76 to address gaps in vested rights, reclamation plans, and pending quarry applications.

Highlighted endangered desert tortoise habitat and past mining contamination concerns in opposing the ordinance.

Shared health concerns living in Wonder Valley and urged protection from particulate pollution and loss of local permitting authority.

Expressed strong opposition to Section 88.03.040B, arguing it bypasses CEQA and local stewardship.

A 40-year Wonder Valley resident and retired Park Service tech who stated the county is abdicating its responsibilities.

Asked direct yes-or-no questions about whether county permitting and CEQA review would be eliminated under the new federal land provision.

Strongly urged voting 'no' on the mining ordinance changes, citing weakened federal NEPA rules compared to CEQA.

Expressed frustration with lack of public inclusion during the three-year drafting process and asked the board to vote no.

Stated that accepting the ordinance language relinquishes county authority and silences impacted residents.

Expressed disbelief that the board would consider stopping local oversight while mining companies tear up land.

Compared the mining ordinance update to a crisis of democracy, urging the board to protect future generations.

Called the ordinance a surrender to mining interests and urged the board to remove the federal land loophole.

Requested denial of the mining ordinance update until language regarding CEQA and SMARA on federal lands is clarified.

Acknowledged staff meetings and willingness to clarify, but urged stronger language guaranteeing CEQA review.

Asked the board to deny or continue the mining ordinance to allow more time for language review and public input.