October 15, 2007—Sacramento—This morning, the California State Public Works Board approved the purchase of a Land Use Restriction Easement (LURE) proposed by the Department of Parks and Recreation for the continued preservation and protection of Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park. The purchase is part of an agreement made between Governor Schwarzenegger’s administration and local landowner, Sam Etchegary, which would prevent him from operating a livestock facility next to Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park.

In early September, Assemblymember Mike Davis (D-Los Angeles) sent a letter of support to the California Public Works Board urging approval of the agreement.  

“The approval of the Land Use Restriction Easement (LURE) by the California State Public Works Board is a vital step in our ongoing effort to preserve and transform this treasured landmark with cultural and historical significance. The purchase of this easement will allow for park visitors to experience the Park without the detrimental effects that would have resulted, if the proposed large-scale dairy complex would have been developed in proximity to the park,” said Assemblymember Davis.

“Today’s landmark decision can only be attributed to the leadership that the Allensworth’ community has taken in this process and the strong support that we have received from Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Attorney General Edmund G. Brown, Jr., the Speaker of the California State Assembly Fabian Núñez and certainly Assemblymember Wilmer Amina Carter who earlier this year introduced AB 576. Assemblymember Carter will continue working with the Governor’s office for the purpose of preserving Allensworth’s rich historical landscape,” Assemblymember Davis said.