The Kern County Board of Supervisors has unanimously approved a revised oil and gas rezoning ordinance that could permit up to 2,700 new oil wells annually. The decision follows over a decade of environmental review, public debate, and nearly $68 million in litigation. The updated ordinance, supported by a comprehensive environmental impact report, addresses court-mandated concerns about agricultural land use, health risks, and water impacts on disadvantaged communities.
Supporters—including Chevron and local officials—highlight the ordinance’s importance for economic stability and energy security, noting Kern’s declining oil-related tax revenue. Critics, however, raised ongoing concerns about environmental and public health impacts, urging a transition toward more sustainable energy solutions. The ordinance is still subject to final court review and may face additional legal challenges within 30 days.
