Re: Statement of Opposition to H.R. 3313

Re: Statement of Opposition to H.R. 3313

Dear Congressman,

This letter will inform you of my strong opposition to H.R. 3313, a bill sponsored by Rep. Doug La Malfa, and co-sponsored by you. As you know, the bill was introduced for the purpose of bringing an Act of Congress to put a 1400 acre property located in Santa Barbara County, into Federal Trust for the benefit of the Chumash Band of Santa Ynez Valley Indians. This property is known locally as “Camp 4”.

I am writing to demand that you withdraw your support for this bill. It shows a complete lack of respect and understanding for our local process, the federal process, and the people of the County of Santa Barbara and their elected leadership.

The Chumash Band of Santa Ynez Valley Indians (“the Chumash Tribe”) have applied through the Bureau of Indian Affairs to have this property taken into Trust. The application has been the subject of three Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisor meetings.

There has been widespread community opposition to the plan. Our Board of Supervisors, have received thousands of emails, letters and telephone calls regarding this project.

After reviewing the application and Environmental Assessment, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors voted 4-1 to appeal the application, citing serious problems with environmental, land use jurisdiction, and loss of tax revenues.

The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors has written Governor Jerry Brown of California, stating their opposition to HR 3313 and asking that he oppose the bill. Attached is a copy of the letter.

Rep. Lois Capps of our district has stated repeatedly that she does NOT support HR 3313 and has stated that she feels that the County and the Chumash Tribe must use the BIA application and appeals process as is provided for in Federal Law.

I oppose this bill because it deprives the citizens of Santa Barbara County the right to the democratic process which is currently under way on the local level. It is manifestly unfair for them to have this legislation thrust upon them before the BIA process has been completed. I am sure that if a similar bill were introduced in your Florida jurisdiction, you would feel the same. Please focus your efforts on the people of the Florida district in which you serve, and stay out of local politics of Santa Barbara County.

Sincerely,