Committee urges tribal engagement, long-term plan ahead of any eminent-domain steps for Bloody Island

An ad-hoc committee update on Bloody Island (referred to in the meeting as Bo don nop po ti) emphasized verifying current ownership and consulting tribal partners before any land-take actions. Michael Bedar reported Monument staff are working to confirm ownership records and intend to contact owners on record.

EJ Crandell cautioned that county ownership of a culturally significant site could be controversial without a long-term management plan and suggested co-management with tribes as an option. Multiple committee members noted several tribes have historical connections to Bloody Island, and the stated goal was to engage tribes in continued dialogue rather than dictate outcomes.