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, Dr. Moreno declared a Local Health Emergency and on September 10, Dr. Moreno issued a second Local Health Emergency. On September 15, 2020 the Board of Supervisors ratified the September 10th Local Health Emergency. Review and continuation of the Local Health Emergency by the Board of Supervisors is 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 September 10, 2020 the County Health Officer again declared a Local Health Emergency and on September 15, 2020 the Board of Supervisors ratified the Local Health Emergency. Once ratified, the board of supervisors must review at least every 30 days the need for continuing the Local Health Emergency. Due to the continued presence of hazardous waste on properties with structural damage as a result of the wildfires, the co...
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