Supervisors Robert Rivas and Anthony Botelho are planning a press conference for Tuesday morning to address an oil company’s $1.2 billion claim against the county.
According to an announcement on the press conference, the two are set to address the claim – a necessary precursor to a lawsuit – which followed passage of Measure J on Nov. 4.
It is set for 9:30 a.m. Tuesday in front of the new courthouse, 450 Fourth St., in Hollister.
According to the announcement:
“Supervisors Rivas and Botelho supported Measure J, which bans fracking and other dangerous oil extraction methods in San Benito County. Many local leaders will also be on hand. The media is invited.
“Measure J won with 59% of the votes in the recent November election, indicating strong support among San Benito County voters for a ban on fracking and extreme extraction.
“Shortly after Measure J passed, Citadel Exploration filed a claim for $1.2 billion in damages against San Benito County. Supporters of Measure J believe that Citadel’s damages claim has no legal merit. However, the claim has caused concern and confusion among some San Benito residents.”
