Allegations of Racism: White Residents Modify Laws to Hinder Black Entrepreneur's Floating Home Sales, While White Investors Face No Barriers

A Black entrepreneur, Dietrick Burks, has filed a federal lawsuit alleging racial discrimination against Marin County, California, amid bureaucratic obstacles encountered while attempting to renovate and relocate floating homes. In 2019, Burks purchased three floating homes from Docktown Marina in Redwood City, intending to enhance them and move them to upscale Sausalito communities, Kappas Marina and Waldo Point Harbor, for resale.His first project progressed smoothly, with the required occupancy permit easily secured, aided by white investor Gary Star. However, as Burks pursued permits for his subsequent homes, resistance emerged from local residents who discovered his race, including petitions intended to obstruct his plans, indicative of racially charged opposition.The lawsuit contends that Marin County officials altered codes and requirements disproportionately impacting Burks compared to similarly situated white developers. As a result, Burks faced extensive fiscal burdens, diminished profits, and significant emotional distress, seeking a jury trial for damages. Marin County officials claim their policies are uniformly applied and not racially motivated. (Photos: Pointer & Buelna, LLP)