Dairy plan riles park supporters: Allensworth backers in L.A., Bay want voice in Tulare Co. land issue.

Byline: Sarah Jimenez

Dec. 18--ALLENSWORTH -- Surrounded by open fields, the tiny Tulare County town of Allensworth is a desolate place. Roads are rough, tall grass borders many homes, and power poles, not trees, dot the skyline. But this town, home to just 120 families, is at the center of a fierce land-use debate. A local farmer's plans to put two dairies in the area has sparked outrage -- and not just from nearby residents.

Nearly a century ago, Allensworth became the first -- and only -- town in the state founded, governed and supported by blacks. A state park called Col. Allensworth State Historic Park preserves some of the buildings and has become a touchstone for California black history. Locals see the dairy debate as a matter of economic development versus quality of life in a region that is all about dairy. But a small contingent of park supporters -- most from the Los Angeles and Bay areas -- say they too should have a voice because of the park's historical significance. David Albers, attorney for dairy applicant Sam Etchegaray, said nonresidents have a role in the issue, given the state park, but that local voices should carry the most weight. And there are local residents who support the project because of the jobs it will bring, he said. "Land-use decisions are local…