Santa Cruz County Supervisor Mark Stone -- also a coastal commissioner -- has been named vice chair of the state organization. The appointment shows that Stone has considerable clout on the commission.
Here's the press release from his office announcing his appointment:
SUPERVISOR MARK STONE ELECTED VICE CHAIR OF THE CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION
At the June 15, 2011, meeting of the California Coastal Commission, held in Marina del Rey, California, Mark Stone, Fifth District Supervisor of Santa Cruz County, was elected Vice Chair of the California Coastal Commission, on which he serves and represents the Central Coast.
Mr. Stone was appointed to the California Coastal Commission on August 21, 2009, by Assembly Speaker Karen Bass to represent Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Mateo Counties.
The California Coastal Commission was established by voter initiative in 1972, and later made permanent by the California Coastal Act of 1976. The Commission’s mission is to protect, restore, and enhance environmental and human-based resources of the California coast and ocean for environmentally-sustainable and prudent use by current and future generations.
The California Coastal Commission, in partnership with coastal cities and counties, plans and regulates the use of land and water in the Coastal Zone. The Coastal Zone, which was mapped by the State Legislature, covers an area larger than the State of Rhode Island.
Page 2 Supervisor Stone said, “I am honored to be chosen by my colleagues to be a part of the leadership of the California Coastal Commission. It is an important time for the Commission and I appreciate the confidence that the Commissioners have in me.”
Coastal Commission Executive Director Peter Douglas commented, “Supervisor Stone has impressed everyone with his calm, clear, incisive, and substantive approach and grasp of issues. He is an excellent choice.”
Assemblymember Bill Monning said, “I am confident that Mark Stone will be a strong leader on the Commission and will continue to work to implement the Coastal Act in a manner that is fair, reasoned, and mindful of how preservation of our precious coastal resources advances our region’s tourism and coastal access for all.”
John Laird, Secretary of the California Natural Resources Agency, remarked, “Mark consistently demonstrates a deep understanding and intelligent approach to solving issues before the Coastal Commission. His commitment to our coast and ocean is what is needed on the Commission right now. I am very pleased with their choice of Mark Stone for Vice Chair.”
