AROMAS, Calif. -- "I think the fact that he's already had people on his property exploring for oil, shows that he is interested in getting something for his mineral rights," said environmentalist, Bill Conklin
A conflict of interest, that's how Conklin sees supervisor Jerry Muenzer's decision to not excuse himself from the controversial fracking discussion in Aromas. But Muenzer said he has no hidden agenda.
"In the spirit of transparency I wanted to let it be known that I have dealt with oil companies," said Conklin.
Muenzer said the deal he made with oil companies was four years ago, they found no oil, and his property isn't on the list for fracking this time.
"Right now does it benefit me financially? No, it does not," said Muenzer.
Muenzer said he is going into the discussion over a new oil and well ordinance in the county with an open mind.
"Will I be slanted towards the oil industry? No, not to the detriment of our community, of our county," said Muenzer.
Conklin doesn't see it that way, and he says he's seen what fracking has done to other states environmentally, like Ohio and West Virginia, and is worried Muenzer could have a negative influence on this community next.
"If he was being honest to the public and being a good politician, he would not be involved in this discussion," said Conklin.
