The opinions expressed by columnists are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Crescent City Times.com By Investigative Reporter Linda Sutter – November 28, 2025 CRESCENT CITY, CA — Serious questions about transparency and compliance with state law have surfaced following the Crescent City Harbor District’s November 12, 2025 meeting, where commissioners adopted and amended multiple ordinances without following required legal procedures. According to a formal Cease and Desist / Cure and Correct Demand issued this week, the Harbor District failed to conduct the legally mandated steps necessary for adopting ordinances under the Harbors & Navigation Code, California Government Code, and the Ralph M. Brown Act. Alleged Violations The demand letter outlines several procedural violations, including: No prior introduction of the ordinances No first reading of proposed laws No posting or publication for public review No public comment opportunity prior to adoption Use of red-lined amendments never released to the public Failure to record the meeting despite substantial legislative actions “These actions are not minor procedural errors,” the letter states. “They are fundamental violations of laws put in place to ensure transparency, public review, and accountability.” State Laws Cited The letter identifies key legal requirements the Harbor District allegedly ignored: Harbors & Navigation Code §6075, which mandates ordinance introduction, public posting, reading, and later adoption Government Code §§25120–25132, setting procedural steps for local government ordinances Government Code §§6061–6066, requiring proper publication Brown Act §§54954.2 and 54954.3, ensuring clear agendas and public comment rights Under these laws, ordinances adopted without proper procedure are invalid and unenforceable. 30-Day Deadline for Corrective Action The Harbor District now has 30 days to: Rescind all ordinances adopted on November 12 Re-agendize each ordinance for proper introduction Allow full public comment Follow statutory posting and reading requirements Provide written confirmation of compliance If the District does not act, legal action may follow, including a writ of mandate or Brown Act enforcement. A Call for Transparency The demand emphasizes that the issue transcends politics and focuses on public rights. “Whether people support the ordinances or not, the public has the right to participate and to trust that laws are being adopted correctly,” Sutter said. “The Harbor District cannot operate outside the law.” Contact Information For more information, contact: Linda Sutter Email: L_sutter@yahoo.com Phone: 707-951-3048