Concerns over safety and communication took center stage during the Monterey County Board of Supervisors meeting on May 20, 2025, as officials expressed frustration regarding the handling of recent battery fire incidents. Supervisor Church highlighted the lack of communication from Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) and VISTA, particularly in relation to their investigations and emergency response plans. He emphasized the need for transparency and collaboration, stating, "It feels a lot like we're having the same problem here where there's not communication coming in."

The discussion was sparked by the aftermath of a significant battery fire that occurred months prior, which left the community feeling vulnerable and unprepared. Church called for a comprehensive emergency action plan, noting that the current response measures were inadequate. He pointed out that the county had not received critical information, such as plume models, which are essential for assessing safety risks.

Supervisor Daniels echoed these sentiments, describing Monterey County residents as "guinea pigs" in the wake of the fire. He stressed the importance of considering the community's experiences and needs as they navigate the complexities of battery energy storage. "We need the questions that we were asked and the requirements that we made in our letter to be fulfilled before we go back online," he asserted.

In a decisive move, the Board voted to engage a toxicologist to analyze data related to the fire and provide a detailed report by the next public hearing. This decision aims to ensure that the community's health and safety are prioritized moving forward.

As the meeting concluded, the supervisors underscored the necessity for improved safety measures and communication strategies to prevent future incidents. The Board's actions reflect a commitment to addressing community concerns and enhancing the safety protocols surrounding battery storage facilities in Monterey County.