Diesel engine near WHS campus draws criticism
By Sophia Fischer sfischer@theacorn.com

Plans are moving forward to install a new Verizon emergency diesel engine at 112 N. Lakeview Canyon Road, near Westlake High School.

The machine will provide backup service in the event of a power failure that could affect up to 3,000 Verizon customers in the Westlake area, according to Jon Davies, a Verizon representative. To ensure that the engine is in top operating condition, it will be run about 20 hours a year, outside school hours, for maintenance.

The 217horsepower generator will emit a small amount of toxic pollutants, according to a notice from the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District, but not enough to be a significant health risk to students and staff at the high school or to area residents and businesses.

"It's the same emissions that come out of a school bus: hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxide, carbon dioxide," said Kerby E. Zozula, engineering supervisor with the Air Pollution Control District. "SUVs probably have more horsepower."

According to a public notice mailed to 2,187 parents of Westlake High students and to 106 residents and businesses within 1,000 feet of the proposed engine site, diesel engine emissions are carcinogens, and prolonged exposure may increase the risk of cancer. A study conducted by the Air Pollution Control District determined that the risk was minimal.

More than 500 similar generators operated by various companies are located throughout Ventura County, said Zozula.

"If you start looking around, these are all over the place, at fire stations, schools, department stores, sewage treatment plants, anybody who, if power goes out, (will be in a critical situation)," Zozula said. The district received some letters objecting to the facility, according to Zozula.

"Response letters are usually negative, but some people had questions like 'What is this for?'" Zozula said.

Westlake High School has not had any feedback from parents or students, according to a spokesperson in Principal Ron Lipari's office.

The application is in the permit approval process with the district, Zozula said. He expects the proposal to be approved within the next month.

For more information, call (805) 645-1421.