Community Member Calls for Investigation of Decommissioning Practices at Former Veneco Facility

During the Carpinteria Special City Council Meeting on July 15, 2025, community concerns regarding environmental safety and accountability were at the forefront, particularly related to the decommissioning of local oil facilities. A resident raised significant issues about a tall piece of equipment, installed in the 1980s and removed in the early 2000s, which had not been properly documented or investigated. This equipment, linked to potential chemical hazards, was reportedly associated with the Gale and Grace offshore platforms.

The resident expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and the absence of permits for the equipment's removal. They highlighted that warnings about cancer-causing emissions had been published in local newspapers, indicating a serious health risk to the community. Despite years of inquiries, the resident noted that their concerns were not adequately addressed during the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) process for the decommissioning.

Additionally, the resident raised alarms about the operational practices of Veneco, the company managing the facilities, citing frequent emergency permits due to maintenance failures. They specifically mentioned a "cathodic well failure," which raised safety concerns. Although the city approved work related to this issue, the resident felt reassured only after discussions with city officials, yet they still found a lack of documentation regarding the removal and cleanup of old wells.

The resident concluded by emphasizing the importance of thorough investigations and proper documentation to ensure community safety during the decommissioning process. Their passionate plea underscored a broader community desire for transparency and accountability in local environmental matters, reflecting a commitment to maintaining a healthy and safe living environment in Carpinteria.