The Great Redwood Trail Agency.

Senator McGuire's legislation redefines the Great Redwood Trail Agency as a state subdivision while expanding its operational authority and establishing new financial oversight mechanisms. The bill grants the agency broader powers to manage rail services and trail development across California's north coast region, including exemptions from local building and zoning ordinances for properties under its direct control.

The legislation implements comprehensive financial controls, requiring the agency to adopt annual budgets through board resolution and undergo regular audits following government accounting standards. It establishes formal competitive bidding procedures for public works contracts above specified thresholds, with exceptions for environmental preservation, maintenance, and emergency work.

The bill modifies the agency's governance structure by revising board member selection processes and allowing local government officers to serve concurrently on the board without conflict. It authorizes the agency to contract with state and local law enforcement to enforce its regulations while maintaining independence from state liability for its financial obligations.

New provisions streamline the agency's ability to work with the State Coastal Conservancy and other state entities, establishing clear protocols for fund distribution and project implementation. The legislation also formalizes the designation of specific trail segments, including the pathway from Larkspur to the Golden Gate Bridge's northern terminus as part of the Great Redwood Trail system.