The Inglewood oil field, seen here in the Baldwin Hills is not part of the expected ban on new wells in unincorporated Los Angeles County areas. A Los Angeles City Council committee recommended adoption of a proposed ordinance on Thursday, Oct. 6 that would phase out oil and gas extraction in Los Angeles, moving the city a step closer to banning oil drilling.
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved a similar ordinance last week. The Los Angeles City Council in January unanimously approved a seriesof recommendations aimed at banning new oil and gas wells. Under the draft ordinance, operators would not be able to expand their existing sites or extend the life of a well during the 20-year phase-out period.
Krekorian responded to concerns over a potential loss of jobs and an increase in gas prices. He said less than 1% of crude oil processed in Southern California refineries actually comes from wells in Los Angeles, and the loss of oil drilling will not impact gas prices locally. On jobs, Krekorian said he believes the era of oil and gas is ending regardless.
Newsom cited the impacts that toxic chemicals have on communities, including asthma and birth defects. The proposal is undergoing an economic analysis and public comment before taking effect. The governor has also called for a statewide phase-out of oil extraction by 2045.