Tustin, CA – Today, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40) and Lou Correa (CA-46) led a bipartisan letter to South Coast Air Quality Management District Chair Vanessa Delgado pressing the District on plans to run additional air quality tests across Orange County in the wake of the recent fire at the former Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) hangar in Tustin, California.
“We are deeply concerned by the impact the ash and debris from the fire could have on the surrounding communities based on the results of the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s (AQMD) initial air quality test,” the members wrote. “While we are appreciative of the quick response to run the test, [it] was done [only] on samples ‘collected in public areas near the hangar.’’”
Specifically, Kim and Correa, alongside their colleagues, note that with the continued presence of Santa Ana winds, there is not just threat of additional fire arising—but increased concern that the spread of the toxic debris across Orange County could increase dramatically far beyond the directly impacted area.
“[W]e ask that you consider providing us with a response as to the AQMD’s plan and timeline to run additional tests across all areas of jurisdiction,” they concluded. “We also ask that you consider providing further clarification on the initial test, including whether other and surrounding areas of Orange County were tested and found to be positive for traces of asbestos […and] encourage South Coast AQMD work with neighboring cities and the County to disseminate information in a timely and transparent manner[.]”
Led by Reps. Kim and Correa, the letter was also signed by Orange County Representatives Michelle Steel (CA-45), Katie Porter (CA-47), and Mike Levin (CA-49).
You can read the full text of the letter HERE.
