In a special meeting, the Kern County Board of Supervisors approved a revised oil drilling ordinance for unincorporated areas—its third attempt after previous court rejections for not meeting California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) standards. Planning Director Lorelei Oviatt presented updates addressing court-mandated issues, including preserving farmland through agricultural easements, imposing a 3,200-foot setback from sensitive areas, and implementing a $9,732 per-well fee to support water relief efforts in disadvantaged communities.
The ordinance received both strong support and opposition. Critics, including the Sierra Club, warned of health and environmental risks, while supporters—like Assembly Member Stan Ellis—emphasized economic benefits and cleaner domestic production compared to foreign oil.
The board ultimately voted in favor of the revised ordinance, moving forward with expanded oil drilling in the region.
