Water Contamination Public Records Request (Los Angeles County Fire Department)
Multi Request | Water Contamination Public Records Request |
Submitted | Jan. 10, 2025 |
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Communications
From: Eric B
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the California Public Records Act, I hereby request the following records:
Subject: Immediate and Urgent Request for Records on Water Contamination from Firefighting and Other Sources
Pursuant to the **California Public Records Act (Government Code § 6250 et seq.)**, and specifically under **Government Code § 6253**, I am formally demanding the immediate release of the following records concerning water contamination in Los Angeles from January 6, 2025, onward, including contamination from firefighting activities, sewage, and any other hazardous material releases:
1. **Comprehensive, detailed reports** documenting *all* instances of water contamination, with a particular focus on firefighting-related contaminants such as foam and chemicals, sewage discharges, and any other hazardous materials that have been introduced into public water systems. These reports should cover a wide range of impacted areas, including but not limited to commercial properties (businesses, industrial zones), public infrastructure (schools, government buildings), and residential neighborhoods. I expect a full and exhaustive record of each incident, its causes, its scope, and its impact on local water quality.
2. **Complete and thorough documentation** of any water filtration systems that have been evaluated, implemented, or planned in response to water contamination from firefighting efforts, sewage, or any other hazardous substances. This must include detailed information on the technologies considered or used, including specifications, effectiveness, cost estimates, and the precise locations where these systems were or will be applied.
3. **A comprehensive list of contact information** for individuals responsible for water quality assessments and decisions regarding the implementation of filtration systems for all types of contamination. This list must include the names, titles, phone numbers, and email addresses of all relevant decision-makers—ensuring that I can directly reach all key individuals involved in addressing this crisis.
This request is not only a legal right under **Government Code § 6253(a)**, which mandates public agencies to provide access to records in a timely and efficient manner, but also a matter of urgent public health and safety. The potential consequences of ongoing water contamination demand full transparency and immediate action. I expect a prompt and thorough response to this request, as failure to provide these records or unjustified delays will result in further legal action, including but not limited to a formal appeal under **Government Code § 6259**.
The urgency and significance of this matter cannot be overstated. Lives, health, and the environment are at risk, and it is imperative that the public is fully informed about the scope of contamination and the measures being taken to mitigate it. I trust you will treat this request with the gravity it deserves.
Thank you for your immediate attention to this critical issue.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 10 calendar days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
Eric B
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following California Public Records Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on Jan. 13, 2025. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Los Angeles County Fire Department
Good morning,
The Los Angeles County Fire Department does not have any records responsive to your request. Please direct your records request to LADWP, the Metropolitan Water District, and the LA County Department of Public Health.
Thank you,
Public Reports
Risk Management Division
LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
1255 Corporate Center Drive, PH-Ste. 402
Monterey Park, CA 91754
T: (323) 267-7217
F: (323) 267-1403