Wendy Sherman: “I rise in support of H.R. 640. I am pleased to join in that effort with my distinguished colleague, the gentleman from…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 640. I am pleased to join in that effort with my distinguished colleague, the gentleman from Ventura County, California (Mr. Gallegly). Mr. Speaker, my colleague from California has explained the importance of the Santa Monica Mountains Recreation Area. I should point out that 33 million people visit this national recreation area each year, for both its mountains and its beaches. It is within an hour's drive of 17 million Americans. In terms of recreation, it is the most important unit of the National Park Service. The park since its inception has been run cooperatively with local government, State government, and local community groups. It has the overwhelming support, I would say the unanimous support, of everyone in the area. For example, its general management plan included input from over 70 elected officials, 15 public meetings, all in the continuing effort to make sure that park management meets local needs. H.R. 640 would expand the park boundaries to include some 3,700 acres of non-Federal public and private lands.”