After multiple notices of violation, two cease-and-desist orders, and countless attempts to resolve the situation amicably, the California Coastal Commission voted on April 10 to impose a more than $18 million fine on oil company Sable Offshore, which was originally facing a nearly $15 million fine based on commission staff’s recommendation. The commission also unanimously voted to approve a third cease-and-desist order for Sable’s alleged unpermitted construction work on oil pipelines along the Gaviota Coast and an environmental restoration order.
Commission Chair Justin Cummings proposed increasing the administrative penalty to $18,022,500 during staff deliberations after the nearly five-hour enforcement report and public comment period. If Sable complies with all aspects of the orders and applies for coastal development permits, it will be able to discount its fine to the original amount of $14,987,250.
Commissioner Susan Lowenberg — one of three commissioners who voted against the fine increase — said she was “very disappointed with my colleagues” for pulling a surprise escalator in the 10th inning…