Exactly what harmful organic compounds have our friends in Benicia been breathing during all the years the Valero refinery failed to report its emissions? BAAQMD has scheduled two important informational meetings to discuss the ongoing Serious Emission Violations incurred by the refinery. Jack Broadbent, the Air District’s Executive Officer/Air Pollution Control Officer, has said:
“Valero’s disregard for air quality regulations and public safety in the surrounding community warrants decisive action and significant penalties to deter violations in the future. Valero did not report or control the emissions from this source as required by Air District regulations, state and federal law, so we are requesting approval of an abatement order to provide transparency as we seek to hold Valero accountable for its actions.”
Broadbent describes this as a “major shift” in the handling of enforcement cases.
The next public meeting, a legal hearing, will be held on March 15 from 9:30 AM – 5 PM. The newly revived Air District’s Hearing Board will consider approving the proposed abatement order (information below). We can view the agenda and provide written comment to the Hearing Board here. We can also provide verbal comment to the Hearing Board during the Hearing in the following ways:
Zoom webinar:
https://bayareametro.zoom.us/j/88980571855
Webinar ID: 889 8057 1855
Participate remotely via phone: (669) 900-6833 or (408) 638-0968.