El Paso families and neighbors are being asked to attend a public meeting on Tuesday evening to learn what happened when the Marathon Refinery released a large plume of pollutants on August 4. The gathering, organized by the El Paso Hispanic Chamber, will be held at Riverside High School from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and will focus on the investigation’s findings, proposed operational changes and how the refinery can improve notification to the community.
What the refinery released
Preliminary reports from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) indicate that the refinery emitted more than 15 tons of pollutants during the incident. The agency’s earlier statement listed 20 air‑contaminant compounds, including nearly 4,000 pounds of carbon monoxide, over 1,000 pounds of sulfur dioxide and more than 10,000 pounds of propylene.
Community impact
Several nearby residents described immediate irritation to their eyes and nausea, and some reported a strong, unpleasant odor. Long‑time El Paso residents Connie and Josie Hernandez, who live just a few blocks from the plant, said they plan to attend the meeting to demand transparency and accountability.
“I’m hoping that this meeting will bring some sort of commitment, accountability from them to place safety features,” Josie Hernandez told ABC‑7. “Because it’s our lives, it’s our lives, and I think most of us did not realize that until this big flare‑up happened.”
The sisters recalled working outside when the flare erupted, describing the flame as “really roaring” and the air as “toxic.” They said the incident reminded them that they are exposed to industrial emissions on a daily basis.
What the meeting will cover
According to the Hispanic Chamber, the agenda includes:
- Presentation of air‑monitoring data collected after the August 4 release.
- Discussion of any operational changes the refinery intends to implement to prevent future incidents.
- Plans for improving community notification, including more timely alerts and clearer communication channels.
- Answers to questions from residents about health concerns and safety measures.
How to get to the meeting
Amistad, a local nonprofit, is offering transportation assistance for anyone who needs a ride. Residents can request a ride by calling (915) 532‑3415 and asking for transportation to the Marathon event.
Refinery response
Marathon Petroleum declined to comment to ABC‑7 prior to the meeting. The company’s lack of response underscores the importance of the public forum, where officials and community members can exchange information directly.
Why this matters for El Paso families
Air quality is a daily concern for families living near industrial facilities. The meeting provides a concrete opportunity for parents, seniors and faith‑based groups to voice their concerns, seek answers and help shape policies that protect health and property. By engaging directly with refinery representatives and regulators, residents can push for stronger safeguards that align with the community’s values of family safety and responsible stewardship of the environment.
Local leaders encourage anyone with questions or health worries to attend, emphasizing that an informed community is better equipped to hold corporations accountable and ensure that future operations prioritize the well‑being of El Paso’s traditional families.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
