During the recent Monterey County Board of Supervisors meeting on January 21, 2025, community concerns regarding environmental safety and communication following a fire at a local battery energy storage facility took center stage. Residents voiced their worries about potential hazardous materials released during the incident and the adequacy of the response from both the facility operators and local authorities.

Peggy Stapp, a representative from Marine Life Studies, raised critical questions about the lack of published information on the particulates and gases emitted during the fire. She emphasized the need for a comprehensive list of substances to be tested and expressed concern over the potential contamination of Moss Landing Harbor, where boats and local businesses could be affected. Stapp also inquired about the presence of hazmat teams to clean affected vessels and sought clarity on funding for businesses that had to close during the emergency.

Stephanie Marcos echoed these concerns, questioning why monitoring equipment was not in place at the facility prior to the fire. She highlighted gaps in testing data, particularly regarding hydrogen fluoride, and called for transparency in the testing process to ensure community safety.

Community member Jason Sakihara raised alarms about potential conflicts of interest in the testing procedures, suggesting that an independent agency should conduct assessments rather than relying on the facility's operators. He expressed apprehension about the safety of local schools and the need for rigorous oversight before allowing the facility to reopen.

Additionally, Becky Steinbruner from Santa Cruz County inquired about emergency response plans for livestock and the implementation of Senate Bill 38, which mandates emergency action plans for battery energy storage facilities. She noted that such discussions had not been addressed during the meeting, highlighting a gap in communication regarding safety protocols.

The meeting underscored a pressing need for improved communication and transparency from local authorities and facility operators. Residents are calling for clear guidance on safety measures and testing protocols to protect their health and the environment. As the community navigates these challenges, the Board of Supervisors faces the task of ensuring that safety regulations are enforced and that residents are kept informed about ongoing developments.