In a recent meeting of the County of Monterey Board of Supervisors, held on May 20, 2025, a significant public comment raised concerns about air quality data and transparency from local authorities. As the meeting commenced, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation, especially as community members were invited to voice their opinions via Zoom or in person.

One participant, identified as Thermo Runaway, brought forth serious allegations against the County of Monterey and the Monterey Bay Air Resource District. They claimed that the county had either withheld information or provided misleading data regarding air quality assessments related to a recent fire incident. The speaker specifically referenced an email exchange that suggested discrepancies in the data used to model air quality impacts, raising questions about the reliability of the information presented to the Board of Supervisors.

The crux of the concern revolved around the use of different exposure standards for air quality assessments. Runaway pointed out that while the county utilized a one-hour exposure standard of 300 parts per billion, a much lower standard of 0.02 parts per million had been identified as appropriate for acute exposure situations. This inconsistency, they argued, was particularly troubling given the prolonged exposure experienced by the community during the incident.

As the meeting progressed, the Board of Supervisors listened attentively, with the public comment highlighting the need for greater transparency and accountability in environmental health matters. The speaker urged the county to release all relevant data and clarify the methodologies used in their assessments, emphasizing the importance of accurate information for public health and safety.

With no further public comments, the meeting moved into a closed session, leaving the community's concerns hanging in the air. The discussions from this meeting underscore a growing demand for clarity and responsiveness from local government regarding environmental issues that directly affect residents' health and well-being. As the Board reconvenes, the implications of these discussions will likely resonate throughout the community, prompting further scrutiny of the county's environmental policies and practices.