The Arvin City Council has approved its new ordinance on oil and gas production within the city limits as expected, following a leak in 2014 that forced eight families to leave their homes for nine months.

New oil and gas operations must now be at least 300 feet from schools, hospitals, and parks and face other drilling restrictions. The ordinance had not been updated since since 1955 and takes effect within 60 days.

Supporters say it will keep residents safe and clean the air, but opponents say it’s bad for business and force them to drill sideways, which is bad for the environment.

Suzanne Grant and Kelli Pierce