BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — The Kern County Board of Supervisors will hold a meeting to review proposed revisions to the county’s zoning ordinance code that would permit new oil drilling in unincorporated areas of Kern County. The revisions aim to establish updated standards and conditions to mitigate the environmental impacts of drilling and would require property owners’ signatures for site plans.
Jeff Flores, the Third County District Supervisor, emphasized the importance of approving these revisions. “What is important now is what’s before us Thursday, so we can take a look at restarting local production, having local permitting here and demonstrating the importance of Kern County as part of the energy solution in California,” said Supervisor Flores. He added that the move is crucial for national security and reducing prices by increasing supply, especially amid Middle East turmoil.
Taft Mayor Dave Noerr echoed Flores’ sentiments, warning of the potential economic collapse of Kern County without oil and gas. “You get rid of oil and gas, Kern County will collapse,” said Mayor Noerr…