San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Meeting 08.18.26

The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors held a meeting on August 19, 2026, which included extensive public discussion and deliberation on a proposed update to the county's mining regulation ordinance (Chapter 88.03). The update aimed to modernize the ordinance to align with the California Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA) and state law revisions, enhancing enforcement, application procedures, and reclamation standards. However, significant public opposition was expressed, particularly concerning provisions that would limit county permitting authority over mining operations on federal lands, potentially ceding local oversight to federal agencies. Concerns were raised about environmental protections, public participation, and the impact on local communities, including the proposed Music Valley Mine near Joshua Tree. The board acknowledged the need for clearer language and better outreach, ultimately voting to continue the public hearing to October 20, 2026, to allow for further revisions and community engagement. Other agenda items included reports on various county projects and community services, but the mining ordinance update was the primary procurement-related focus of the meeting.