L.A. Considers Shutting Down Active Oil Site Amid Air Pollution Concerns

The city of Los Angeles is considering an unprecedented move: shutting down an active oil site in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. The Murphy drill site, operated by E&B Natural Resources, has a history of air pollution violations dating back to before the current operator took over in 2019.

Residents have been fighting for years to close the site, citing health concerns and environmental issues. Rev. Eddie Anderson, who used to live near the site, experienced firsthand the negative effects of living next to an oil production site. His wife suffered two miscarriages, their dog developed cancer, and his asthma worsened.

Anderson moved away in 2024 but continues to advocate for the site's closure. He believes it's not just an environmental justice issue, but a civil rights one as well. The Murphy drill site is owned by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese, and E&B has argued that oil is essential for the region, providing local energy while following strict environmental rules.

However, research from the University of Southern California has found that neighbors living near the wells had lower lung function and higher levels of toxic metals in their nail clippings compared to those farther away. The city's zoning administrator is weighing whether to revoke E&B's permit, a first for Los Angeles.