A South Coast city is calling for state regulators to conduct a full environmental review of a controversial project to renovate a gas company facility in the community.
Southern California Gas started preliminary work to remove an existing building, and remove contaminated soil from a gas compressor facility in West Ventura. Company officials say they have the necessary state and federal permits for the project. The station repressures gas to move it through the pipeline system to customers, and has been there for more than 40 years. The plan is to modernize and expand the facility.
But, neighbors are concerned dust from the work will expose people to toxic chemicals. And, some residents say the North Olive Street facility poses an environmental and safety threat which doesn’t belong near homes, and a school.
The Ventura City Council passed a resolution Monday night calling for state agencies which oversee facilities of this type to require a complete review of environmental, safety, and health issues. The city only has limited regulatory power over the planned project.
