MONTEREY COUNTY — Monterey County Supervisor Chris Lopez has officially begun his tenure on the California Coastal Commission, following his appointment by State Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas.
Lopez started his work on May 21, bringing a rural Central Coast perspective to one of the state’s most influential environmental and land-use bodies.
Speaker Rivas, who represents coastal communities across four counties and has long championed inclusive representation, announced the appointment on May 16. Citing Lopez’s deep local roots and long-standing commitment to agricultural and working-class communities, Rivas said the supervisor’s voice is “long overdue” on the commission.
“California’s coast is a national treasure, and we must protect this iconic landscape thoughtfully for the future,” Rivas said. “Agricultural communities and farmworkers are the economy’s backbone all along our Central Coast, and their voices must be at the center of decisions about the coast’s stewardship.”
Lopez, elected to the Monterey County Board of Supervisors in 2018, brings experience shaped by his upbringing in the Salinas Valley and his work on issues ranging from conservation to workforce housing. In his statement, Lopez emphasized the urgent challenges ahead and his intent to lead with both humility and determination.
“As a proud son of rural Monterey County with deep roots in the fertile soils of the Salinas Valley, I am deeply honored by Speaker Rivas’ appointment to the California Coastal Commission,” Lopez said. “Our coast is a vital lifeline for communities, economies and ecosystems, yet it faces pressing challenges — from climate change to equitable access and the urgent need for workforce housing.”
Environmental and civic leaders across the Central Coast have applauded the appointment.
Will Lewallen, chair of the Big Sur Land Trust, described Lopez as “a dedicated and trusted public servant” who will bring a collaborative approach to the commission’s work.
“Supervisor Lopez is universally respected because of his sensitivity to the many challenges faced by his constituents, and he is respected by his colleagues because of his approach to solving problems through collaboration and cooperation,” Lewallen said. “He will bring that same approach to the California Coastal Commission, and I am thrilled that Supervisor Lopez will contribute to protecting and enhancing California’s coast for future generations.”
Paul Robins, executive director of the Resource Conservation District of Monterey County, also praised the choice.
“We have appreciated Supervisor Lopez’s commitment and support for our collaborative conservation work to help Salinas Valley farmers and other land managers do right by the land in a manner that balances environmental, social and economic realities,” Robins said. “Given that, I anticipate he’d bring a valuable mindset and voice to the Coastal Commission.”
Sand City Mayor Mary Ann Carbone, who has served alongside Lopez on various local boards, called him a steadfast ally.
“He hears my voice as I speak for the people,” Carbone said. “I feel Mr. Lopez will make a wonderful addition representing our area on the Coastal Commission.”
Lopez now joins 11 other voting members on the commission, which is tasked with protecting and enhancing California’s 840-mile coastline — a mission that continues to grow in urgency amid climate impacts and increasing development pressures.
