Mendocino County Reinstates 'Climate Change' Language in Policy

Jan 10, 2026, 2:32 AM

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Mendocino County's Board of Supervisors has unanimously decided to reinstate the term "climate change" in its legislative platform, reversing a previous amendment that replaced it with "climate resiliency." This decision reflects the county's commitment to addressing environmental issues despite the Trump administration's stance on climate policy.

The legislative platform, which outlines the county's positions on state and federal legislation, was initially amended in November to avoid potential funding exclusions from the Trump administration, which has sought to dismantle federal efforts to combat climate change. The change was made based on recommendations from the county's executive office, which expressed concerns about the risks associated with using the term "climate change".

At a recent meeting, Supervisor John Haschak, who opposed the initial language change, expressed frustration over the lack of communication regarding the amendment. He stated, "It's unfortunate that we have gotten to this point after several months of dealing with this," emphasizing that the board could have provided direction earlier in the process to avoid confusion and delays.

On December 16, Supervisor Ted Williams proposed a draft that reinstated the term "climate change" to better reflect the views of Mendocino County residents. This proposal garnered support from other board members, who agreed that the language should not be compromised out of fear of the Trump administration's policies. Community members also voiced their support for the reinstatement during public comments, reinforcing the board's decision to take a firm stance on climate issues.

The board's decision is significant as it aligns with the growing recognition of climate change as a critical issue affecting local communities. Mendocino County has been proactive in addressing environmental challenges, and the reinstatement of "climate change" in its legislative platform signals a commitment to advocating for policies that address these pressing concerns. The next Board of Supervisors meeting is scheduled for January 13, where further discussions on the legislative platform will continue.

This move by Mendocino County reflects a broader trend among local governments to assert their positions on climate change, particularly in the face of federal policies that may undermine environmental protections. As communities grapple with the impacts of climate change, local leaders are increasingly prioritizing climate action and resilience in their policy frameworks, regardless of the political climate at the national level.

In conclusion, Mendocino County's decision to reinstate "climate change" in its legislative platform underscores the importance of local governance in addressing environmental issues. The board's unanimous vote demonstrates a collective commitment to advocating for climate action and resilience, setting a precedent for other local governments to follow in the pursuit of sustainable policies that protect their communities and the environment.

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