SoCalGas Extends Relocation Deadline Following Backlash
February 08, 2016Just days after its initial announcement that Porter Ranch residents would have just 48 hours to return home once SS 25 was verifiably sealed, SoCalGas has reached an agreement with the City Attorney to extend that timeframe.
The new agreement will give residents eight days and seven nights to return home once the state’s Division of Oil, Gas and Geothermal Resources (DOGGR) confirms that the leak has stopped.
“After finding their lives upended for months, Porter Ranch residents deserve a reasonable amount of time to move back into their homes–following independent assurance the leak truly has been stopped,” said City Attorney Mike Feuer. “This agreement will help residents resume their daily routines on schedules that work best for them.”
Gillian Wright, SoCalGas Vice President of Customer Services, echoed a similar sentiment. ”We recognize that the leak has disrupted the Porter Ranch community,” said Wright. “We are pleased to offer more flexibility to support a smoother transition back home.”
SoCalGas did not mention if it would be following the recommendations outlined in a six-page letter written by attorney Patricia K. Oliver on behalf of thousands of Porter Ranch residents and Save Porter Ranch to request formally that SoCalGas make public all steps and tests purportedly taken to protect the community.
The gas company has set up an FAQ for residents returning home where all the information on the new plan can be found.
