Dear Friends of Tiburon Open Space,
Hello. It’s been a while. We have some very good news.
Yesterday, United States Federal Magistrate Judge Maria-Elena James ruled against the Martha Company, denying their moves to enforce the stipulated judgments of 1976 and 2007. Judge James wrote:
Having considered the parties' arguments, the relevant legal authority,
and the record in this matter, the Court RECOMMENDS
the District Judge DENY the Motion.
Said differently, the court ruled 100% in our favor! And 100% in favor of Marin County, the other party in the legal action. This order is actually a recommendation to Federal District Court Judge Saundra Armstrong who will then make the final order. We are optimistic that she will accept Judge James’ order in its entirety. The Martha Company can choose to appeal. They have 14 days to do so.
Photo by Jocelyn Knight
We, of course, hope that they will not choose that option. In fact, we will encourage them to come to the table, sit with us and other parties, and begin a meaningful discussion to determine a fair purchase price for the land.
While we would love to, we’ll host no party just yet. There’s still a long way to go. There will be considerable expense involved with the effort to determine that fair price.
So, yes, we are asking for your continued public, emotional and financial support. We need money to take a major step closer to the ultimate finish line: a Martha open space that will be open, forever.
We welcome your enthusiasm, questions and support. Thank you.
Tiburon Open Space