California State Lands Commission

The meeting involved consideration of a reimbursement agreement and authorization to contract for an appraisal at Bolsa Chica. Discussions revolved around the Bolsa Chica Boundary Settlement and Exchange Agreement, specifically concerning the Lease/Option area and its potential renegotiation. The aim was to analyze the impact of land use designations and reconfigure the Lease/Option area equitably, necessitating an appraisal of land values. The commission authorized the execution of a reimbursement agreement with Signal Landmark, Inc. to fund the appraisal and authorized staff to solicit bids for the appraisal work.

The meeting centered on the potential purchase of approximately 880 acres of the Bolsa Chica Lowlands from the Signal Bolsa Corporation, with a portion to be transformed into a tidal basin and the remainder restored as wetlands. The funds for this initiative would primarily come from the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach in exchange for mitigation credits. The agreement between multiple state and federal agencies along with the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles divides responsibilities for acquisition, restoration, and management. The State Lands Commission is responsible for acquiring the property and acting as the restoration project banker. The restoration plan includes creating a tidal inlet, a full tidal basin, and restoring the remaining area to tidal, salt marsh, and seasonal ponds. Environmental cleanup of contaminated soils will be conducted by the seller and past oil lessees at no cost to the state.

The meeting discussed the proposed issuance of a General Lease for Recreational and Protective Structure Use to James S. Winters and Sally S. Winters, as Trustees of The Winters Trust of 2011. The lease pertains to filled and unfilled sovereign land in the Napa River, adjacent to 1792 Milton Road, Napa County, for an existing dock, appurtenant facilities, unattached piling, and rip rap. The lease term is 10 years, beginning February 1, 2026, with an annual rent of $167, adjusted annually by the Consumer Price Index. Climate change impacts, including sea level rise and flood risks, were analyzed, and adaptation strategies were recommended to improve resiliency. The staff concluded that the lease issuance would not substantially interfere with Public Trust needs and is in the best interests of the State.

The proposed action involves the amendment of a General Lease for Recreational Use. The amendment includes authorizing the construction and use of a joint-use pier, revising the annual rent, replacing the existing lease Exhibits A and B, and ensuring public access to the Public Trust easement. The staff analysis concludes that the proposed amendment is consistent with the Public Trust Doctrine and in the best interests of the State. The report also addresses climate change impacts on Lake Tahoe and recommends regular maintenance and inspection of the authorized improvements.

The California State Lands Commission, California Department of Fish and Game, Signal Bolsa Corporation, and Signal Landmark, Inc. discussed an agreement regarding lands in the Bolsa Chica Area, Orange County. The parties approved an amendment to the original 1973 Agreement authorizing the extension of the lease and option period. The parties wish to further extend the option period in which to obtain an appropriation to April 17. 1987.