Residents demand Hilo County investigate unpermitted hazardous materials and trust violations

Concerns over public safety and regulatory oversight took center stage at the Yolo County Board of Supervisors meeting on July 8, 2025, as residents raised alarming questions about a potentially hazardous site operating without proper permits.

A resident questioned whether the location could be classified as a Superfund site, citing concerns about chemical particulates released into the air and their potential impact on the community. The individual expressed disbelief that a volatile operation had been allowed to function in an agricultural zone for nearly 30 years, highlighting that longtime residents were aware of its existence while newer residents were not.

The discussion intensified as the resident pointed out serious safety issues, including the troubling fact that a teenager had been permitted to work on the site. They demanded clarity on what safety disclosures were made to employees and questioned the knowledge of local fire and sheriff departments, which were reportedly aware of the presence of explosives at the site.

The resident's comments underscored a broader crisis of trust in local authorities, asking how residents could feel secure in their protection after such revelations. They called for an investigation into all unpermitted activities across Yolo County and urged the county to disclose any known hazards to the public.

As the meeting concluded, the implications of these concerns loomed large, leaving residents anxious about the safety of their community and the accountability of local officials. The county's next steps in addressing these issues will be closely watched by the community.