Nestled in the picturesque hills of California stands the world-renowned Napa Valley wine country, where rolling vineyards and luxurious wineries are a staple of the area.
Unfortunately, under this idyllic façade lies a dirty secret that has allegedly been kept hidden for years: Gov. Gavin Newsom and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi – both with large vineyards in the region – have ignored warnings about hazardous conditions for waste collection and landfill workers.
The Glass Fire of 2020 brought attention to these allegations as workers were sent to clean up the aftermath, only to be exposed to toxic chemicals without proper protective equipment or training.
As a result, 15 workers filed a complaint with California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health, seeking $300 million in restitution from Clover Flat Landfill and Upper Valley Disposal Services.
But why did it take so long for anyone to take action?
Geoff Ellsworth, former mayor of St Helena (where Pelosi’s multi-million-dollar Zinfandel Lane Vineyard is located), has been warning her about Clover Flat Landfill’s potential to pollute air and water since years ago however, his pleas have gone unanswered.
Ellsworth believes that because this is “the backyard of San Francisco”, politicians feel no need to address issues related to environmental safety or labor laws within their own community – despite having personal connections there.
In addition, Gov. Newsom purchased Oso Vineyard with San Francisco billionaire Gordon Getty last year for $14.5 million – yet still paid no heed when Ellsworth attempted contact them regarding safety concerns at the landfill.
Jose Garibay Jr., former supervisor at Clover Flat Landfill was one of those who spoke out after witnessing firsthand how inadequately prepared they were sent into an emergency situation without any prior training on how to handle hazardous materials or clean up fire damage properly.
Additionally, Gary Hernandez and Ricky Hernandez reported being forced to work even during evacuation orders when wildfires raged – one while servicing Nancy Pelosi’s house – while also being told not wear masks even after testing positive for COVID-19!
Worse yet, when they did complain about their mistreatment they faced discrimination based on race as well as retaliation against them at their job site due their whistleblowing activities on behalf of their employers’ neglectful practices.
