The Yolo-Solano AQMD Hearing Board reviews three types of cases: variance requests, abatement orders, and permit disputes. This independent, five-member board operates separately from the District’s Board of Directors and convenes as needed.
Members are appointed by the Board of Directors to serve renewable three-year terms. In accordance with state law, the board must include one attorney, one professional engineer, one medical professional, and two public members.
As required by law, the District ensures that all Hearing Board meetings are publicly noticed, accessible, and open for public review. To check for upcoming public hearings, please click here.
Current Hearing Board
| MEMBER MEMBER | MEMBER CLASSIFICATION |
| Todd Bruce | Public Member |
| Bruce Du Clair | Public Member |
| VACANT | Medical Member |
| Tom Kear – CHAIR | Engineering Member |
| Christopher Ogata | Legal Member |
Now Recruiting: Medical Member for District Hearing Board
The District is seeking qualified applicants to serve as the Medical Member of the Hearing Board.
The Hearing Board plays an important role in ensuring fair and impartial consideration of matters related to air quality regulations and enforcement. The Medical Member provides professional expertise to assist the Board in evaluating cases involving public health impacts and medical considerations.
Position Overview
The Medical Member serves as one of five members of the Hearing Board. This position is intended for a licensed medical professional with experience or demonstrated knowledge in the effects of air pollution on public health.
Hearing Board members are responsible for reviewing evidence, participating in public hearings, deliberating on variance and permit matters, and issuing written decisions in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Qualifications
Applicants must:
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Be a licensed physician in the State of California
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Have knowledge or experience related to the health effects of air pollution
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Be able to attend scheduled hearings and participate in deliberations
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Demonstrate sound judgment and the ability to evaluate technical and medical information
Prior experience serving on a public board or quasi-judicial body is helpful but not required.
Term and Service
The Medical Member serves a 3-year fixed term. Hearing Board members receive compensation as provided by District policy. Meetings are held as needed.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit a completed Hearing Board Member Application (including a current resume or curriculum vitae)
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
The District encourages qualified individuals to apply and values professional expertise that supports informed and balanced decision-making.
Variance Applications
Variance applications are requests for temporary relief from Yolo-Solano AQMD requirements filed by entities subject to the District’s rules and regulations. A granted variance application allows a source to operate despite being in violation of a District regulation while steps to come into compliance are being taken.
Abatement Orders
Yolo-Solano AQMD’s Air Pollution Control Officer, Board of Directors, or Hearing Board may request an abatement order against an emissions source. The Hearing Board may issue abatement orders that carry fines of up to $25,000 per day of violation and potential criminal sanctions. The abatement order is the District’s strongest administrative sanction.
Permit Disputes
The Hearing Board may also hear appeals from sources on permit denials, approvals, suspensions, or revocations. The Air Pollution Control Officer can also request that the Hearing Board determine whether a permit should be revoked due to violations. Third parties may also appeal District permit decisions to the Hearing Board.
