John Doolittle: “I rise in support of H.R. 2709, introduced by Mr. Riggs of California, to transfer ownership of 4.32 acres of national…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 2709, introduced by Mr. Riggs of California, to transfer ownership of 4.32 acres of national forest land in California to the Del Norte County Unified School District for the Gasquet Mountain School. The school district has leased the land from the Six Rivers National Forest for $900 per year for a school since 1961. While technically part of the Six Rivers National Forest, the parcel is actually in a town setting and would otherwise be unused by the Forest Service. Because the school district does not own title to the land, it has been unable to qualify for funding to upgrade or add to the school. There is no indoor facility for children in inclement weather. The transfer would enable the school to build a multipurpose room for use as a cafeteria, gymnasium, and meeting room. This commonsense legislation is needed so that a small rural community in northwest California can provide much-needed facilities for its students.”