Memorandum
Date: October 7, 2025
To: The Honorable Lake County Board of Supervisors
From: Susan Parker, County Administrative Officer
Stephen L. Carter, Jr., Assistant County Administrative Officer
Matthew Rothstein, Chief Deputy County Administrative Officer
Subject: Consideration of an Update on Xabatin: Big Lake Big Science Documentary and Approval of Further Usage of Film
Executive Summary:
As members of your Board are aware, the recent Soper-Reese Community Theatre premiere of Xabatin: Big Lake Big Science was very well attended (not all who presented to the theatre were able to be accommodated due to strong interest). Thanks to Chair Crandell and Supervisor Rasmussen for appearing in the film.
Your Board’s support of this unique project, of which the County’s Videographer, Sam Euston, is a primary driving force, has resulted in a significant positive community response, and stands as a counterpoint to negative messages regarding our County’s central feature, Clear Lake.
The intent from the outset of this project has been to segment the film for use in educational settings, for example, and present the full-length documentary at film festivals, which is anticipated to occur in late 2025 and 2026. No request is being made of your Board to contribute to festival submittal fees or other expenses, at this time.
Given the strong response, thus far, staff anticipates your Board will support taking these further anticipated steps and sharing the film with a broader audience. However, staff and project partners Sam Euston and Lake County Land Trust are seeking your Board’s concurrence.
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Recommended Action: Approval, by consensus, to proceed with submittal of Xabatin: Big Lake Big Science for consideration by Film Festivals and use for educational purposes.