Big news: you spoke up and it worked! The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) just paused the air permitting process for Zenith Energy and canceled two public hearings scheduled for Nov. 19 and Dec. 4.

The change in plans is due to findings from DEQ’s unannounced inspection of Zenith’s facility on Nov. 13. The DEQ’s inspection focused on the McCall Oil dock, which Zenith illegally incorporated in 2021 to expand its operations—one of Zenith’s Legacy of Violations and Lies. According to an Oregonian article, the DEQ’s Air Quality Permit Manager Lisa Ball explained the inspection was prompted by questions from community members about Zenith’s operations that the DEQ couldn’t answer. Ball stated, “This is a complete result of the public process. We’re very proud of our community for bringing questions up that pushed us to investigate further.”

In the News:

Advocates “Cautiously Optimistic” About DEQ Decision to Delay Zenith Air Quality Permit, Portland Mercury, November 14, 2024

State puts hold on Zenith Energy’s controversial air permit process in surprise move, Oregonian, November 14, 2024

This is not the end of the Zenith saga, but is a clear sign that we have the attention of regulators.

Come Celebrate 

Think you have nothing to do on 11/19 since the hearing was canceled? Think again! Join us for “Zenith On The Ropes,” a moment to come together, take a deep breath, and celebrate. 

Tuesday, November 19th AT 6:00 p.m.
350PDX Workspace, 3639 N Mississippi Avenue MAP

Music. Speakers. Pizza. People. Learn about what this cancellation may mean for our region and Zenith.