Title
Adopt a resolution continuing the Local Health Emergency for the Monterey County Fires Incident.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
Adopt a resolution continuing the Local Health Emergency for the Monterey County Fires Incident.
SUMMARY:
On August 16, 2020 the River, Dolan and Carmel wildfires (collectively, the "Monterey County Fires") swept through areas of unincorporated Monterey County causing severe damage to areas including but not limited to the Sierra de Salinas range, Carmel Valley and areas of Cachagua and Jamesburg, and Big Sur Ventana Wilderness. On September 3, 2020, Dr. Moreno declared a Local Health Emergency and on September 10, 2020, Dr. Moreno declared a second Local Health Emergency. On September 15, 2020 the Board of Supervisors ratified the September 10th Local Health Emergency. The Board of Supervisors reviewed and continued the Local Health Emergency on October 13, November 5, and December 1, 2020. On December 30, 2020, Dr. Moreno declared a third Local Health Emergency and on January 5, 2021 the Board of Supervisors ratified the Local Health Emergency. The Board of Supervisors reviewed and continued the Local Health Emergency on February 2, March 2, and March 23, 2021. Review and continuation of the Local Health Emergency by the Board of Supervisors is again requested.
DISCUSSION:
The Monterey County Fires have caused damage and destruction of homes and buildings, resulting in ash debris that has been tested and is known to be contaminated with heavy metals, asbestos, and household hazardous waste. As such, the hazardous ash debris poses an exceptional risk of exposure to county residents, various state and local agency employees and private contractor employees. This risk was determined to be an immediate threat to the health and safety of the public, prompting the Monterey County Health Officer to declare a Local Health Emergency on September 3, 2020 which expired after 7 days. On Se...
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