Defend Z
We will help Monterey County vigorously defend Measure Z in the courts by bringing a strong legal team to intervene in the lawsuits.
Implement Z
We'll ensure that Measure Z is faithfully implemented by Monterey County and the will of the voters is upheld.
Bright Future
Monterey County has a bright future if we protect our water, health and economy. We support projects like Community Choice Energy which move our community to a sustainable future.
Why Monterey County Passed Measure Z
(click on arrow above to view video)
Aug. 3, 2023 -- CA Supreme Court Rules on Z
The California Supreme Court ruled in favor of Measure Z proponents.
Oct. 12, 2021 -- Court of Appeals Rules on Z
6th District Court of Appeals ruled in favor of Big Oil. Measure Z proponents will appeal decision.
1
What's Measure Z?
Measure Z is a Monterey County citizen's initiative, placed on the ballot by volunteers who collected over 16,000 signatures. It bans fracking and limits other risky oil operations in the county. Measure Z passed on November 8, 2016 with 56% of the vote. Read more about the initiative at the "Measure Z" tab.
2
What is the oil industry’s response?
After the election, Chevron, Aera Energy (owned by ExxonMobil and Shell), and other oil interests filed 6 lawsuits challenging Measure Z. Phase 1 of the Measure Z trial begins on November 13, 2017 at Monterey County Superior Court.
3
What's Protect Monterey County's role?
After helping to pass Measure Z, Protect Monterey County (PMC) now works to ensure that the voters’ decision is honored. PMC has assembled a strong legal team to intervene in the lawsuits and assist the County with Measure Z legal defense. PMC will also work with the County to ensure that Measure Z is fully implemented.
4
WHEN WILL MEASURE Z Take effect?
Since the oil industry is challenging the legality of Measure Z, its full implementation has been delayed. (Only the Measure Z exemption procedures are currently allowed to be implemented.) We’ll know more after the judge renders a decision in the Measure Z trial.
5
WHAT’s the status of aquifer exemptions?
Local oil companies have applied to the state (DOGGR) for exemptions that allow them to continue injecting wastewater into our protected aquifers -- a practice which endangers Monterey County’s groundwater and our premier agricultural and tourism industries. Members of PMC submitted public comments objecting to these exemptions. We are awaiting a final decision by DOGGR and U.S. EPA.
6
HOW CAN I HELP?
Attend public hearings and rallies posted under "Events" and help keep our government officials accountable. Donate to the Measure Z legal defense fund. The oil industry has millions to spend, while we rely on supporters like you.
Please Donate!
How to donate
Make a secure donation by clicking the "Donate" button on the right... Or mail a check to P.O. Box 1946, Monterey, CA 93942. (Make check payable to “Protect Monterey County".) Donations to Protect Monterey County are not tax deductable. However, Protect Monterey County is an all-volunteer, nonprofit group and every penny of your donation will go to legal and related expenses.
contact information
Address
Protect Monterey County P.O. Box 1946 Monterey, CA 93942
Phone
831-272-2084
Email
info@protectmontereycounty.org.