Huntington Beach : Citizens Group Sues to Block Oil Drilling
A citizens group filed a lawsuit Thursday, seeking to block enforcement of an ordinance passed by the Huntington Beach City Council that would allow oil drilling in a residential area.
The council failed to consider “major environmental issues” raised by the Concerned Citizens for Huntington Beach in opposition to the drilling operation, the lawsuit said.
The group seeks a judicial declaration that the council failed to follow state law in approving a zoning change which would allow Angus Petroleum Corp. to start operations Dec. 3.
On Oct. 20, The council approved Angus’ proposal to drill and store oil on two square blocks bounded by Delaware Street, Springfield Avenue, Rochester Avenue and California Street.
The city Planning Commission had denied Angus’ request, ruling that the operation was “incompatible” with the residential area, according to the lawsuit.
The group also claimed it was denied the opportunity to fully air its opposition before the City Council.
The preliminary injunction sought in the lawsuit filed Thursday requires a court hearing, which has yet to be scheduled.
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