Bluff council discusses how to respond to large reduction in Bears Ears National Monument

Bluff, Utah — After a recent, substantial reduction to Bears Ears National Monument, Bluff council members discussed how the town should respond publicly and what to emphasize in outreach.

Council members began the discussion noting the monument’s reduced size (described in the minutes as approximately 95%) and the sensitive nature of public statements. Council member Britt Hornsby urged the town to emphasize the economic ramifications of the reduction and to uplift tribal voices, noting his and former Mayor Leppanen’s prior involvement in creating the Bears Ears Management Plan. Council members expressed frustration at what they described as inconsistent monument designations and suggested that a more durable congressional designation could better serve all stakeholders. The minutes note that a new advisory board will form and that the current management plan may remain in effect until replaced.

No formal statement or vote was adopted at the work session; council discussed messaging cautions because public comments could affect funding and local relationships with Indigenous neighbors. Town officials asked staff to be prepared to respond to press inquiries in a way that balances advocacy for local/tribal interests and practical funding concerns.