CTC approves transfer of Blues Beach to Kaipom nonprofit organized by three Pomo tribes

The California Transportation Commission approved a director's deed transferring about 136.23 acres of coastal land (Blues Beach/Chadbring Gulch) to Kaipom Nonprofit Corporation, an organization formed by Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians, Round Valley Indian Tribes and the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, under the authority of Streets and Highways Code section 118.9 (enacted by Senate Bill 231 in 2021).

Patricia Rabano, speaking for the tribal coalition, said the intertribal nonprofit is prepared to steward the property's cultural and natural resources "for generations to come," emphasizing the site's cultural resources, traditional food and plant uses and the tribes' intent to protect the landscape.

Sean Drake, legislative program manager for the California Coastal Commission, said the Coastal Commission worked closely with Kaipom and CALTRANS staff to secure a coastal development permit and co‑develop a management plan for the property. "With those key documents in place, we're so pleased that this year's long effort now comes before you," Drake said, endorsing the transfer as a milestone in returning coastal land to tribal stewardship.

Commission staff said the property was originally purchased under the Highway Beautification Act of 1965, contains significant cultural resources for local tribes, and that the Kaipom Corporation is a qualified nonprofit organized under section 501(c)(3). Commissioners praised the transfer as a stewardship and environmental justice measure. The motion to approve the director's deed was made by Commissioner Grisby, seconded by Commissioner Bradshaw, and passed by voice vote.

What happens next: CALTRANS will execute the director's deed and proceed with transfer and management planning consistent with the Coastal Commission permit and the Kaipom management plan.

Attribution: Quotes and attributions come from tribal commenter Patricia Rabano, Coastal Commission representative Sean Drake, and CALTRANS staff as recorded in the meeting transcript.