California Orders Cleanup of Kern County Oil Sites as Operator Faces Criminal Case

California energy regulators have taken emergency action against a Kern County oil operator for hazardous conditions near homes and a school. CalGEM issued an emergency order to 25 Hill Properties Inc.

and owner Ronald Engelberg to clean up an out-of-compliance sump and tank. Inspectors found uncovered pits with oil, water, and dead wildlife, including birds and rodents, at sites near Linden and Taft.

The facilities are within 300 feet of a residence and 800 feet of an elementary school, posing an immediate threat. Engelberg has pleaded not guilty to five felony charges and is out on bail while the cleanup order proceeds.

The case highlights ongoing enforcement challenges with oilfield operators who are also facing significant legal troubles.