HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – On Wednesday, Harris County Judge Lauren Reeder issued a temporary injunction in a case between residents in Dayton and Jay Management Company, which operates oil drilling services. The company is accused of causing damage to property.
Under the temporary injunction, the court ruled homeowners have suffered damages because of ongoing oil spills and leakage. However, the court also acknowledged that Jay Management Company may continue oil and gas production, while it ensures drilling operations won’t lead to more leaks or spillage.
Attorney Roy Elizondo said the temporary injunction is a win for the plaintiffs.
“We got the relief we were seeking, and I think the judge did the right thing. Not only on a human level but a legal level. We were expecting to possibly file some supplemental briefs and wait until tomorrow, but the judge did her own research I’m sure, and made sure that her order was in compliance with Texas State laws and met the abuse of discretion standards. I didn’t think she was going to sign it unless she felt comfortable with it and I’m just glad it happened sooner rather than later,” Attorney Elizondo said.
Residents says oil spills and leakage from equipment on their property is causing health and safety concerns.
“I trust the judge and I’m glad that we have the support from her because the damage and contamination is too much,” one resident said.
The order also states that Jay Management Company is required to ensure that its equipment is functioning properly. Residents must allow Jay Management Company access to its equipment and other assets to make repairs.
Both parties must meet with a mediator within 60 days of the temporary injunction.
Jay Management Company issued a statement to KPRC 2 following the ruling:
“Harris County Civil Court Judge, Laureen Reeder restored Jay Management’s ability to continue oil & gas production on Plaintiff’s property while it proceeds to clean up an oil spill in Dayton, Texas.
Reeder heard testimony on the matter yesterday. Attorneys for the Plaintiffs and Jay Management argued the merits of the case. Defendant’s attorneys and witnesses for the Defense included agents from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC).
Today, Judge Reeder found there was no reason to keep Jay Management from the production of oil & gas as they continue cleanup efforts on Plaintiff’s properties stemming from a spill earlier this year caused by a surface resident. Defendants, Jay Management, were ordered to stop production on Plaintiff’s properties on May 18th by Civil Court Judge, Robert Shaffer. The stoppage included 10 producing oil wells across several plaintiff’s properties. Jay Management oversees more than 140 active wells in Liberty County.
‘Today is a win for us. Judge Reeder saw that Jay Management is in full compliance with the Railroad Commission and other governmental agencies in its handling of cleanup efforts. Jay Management has done nothing wrong. There was no proof put on by the Plaintiff that this spill is causing any harm to those living around it. After inspecting the equipment, Jay Management will immediately restore production on the 10 wells that were shut down. It’s important for residents or anyone living near an active oil field to call 811 before digging, drilling, or excavating in known areas where oil and gas production is taking place.’
-Amir Sanker, COO of Jay Management Company, LLC
The initial spill was created by a resident clearing land and digging without calling 811 or notifying Jay Management. As a result, some pipes were damaged. Jay Management was not made aware of one pipe leak causing the oil cleanup currently underway until January 29, 2023. Likely weeks after the pipe was compromised. Once notified, Jay Management immediately contacted contractors, and the cleanup process started the same day.
On Thursday, our cameras captured Jay Management Company trucks driving around the community and residents showed KPRC oil coming from rusted pipes.
If Jay Management Company or residents violate the courts order, it would be up to the judge to decide what penalties or fines they could face. Both parties will meet with a mediator in the next 60 days.
SEE ALSO:
Residents in Dayton community concerned about their health, livestock after crude oil spill
Residents in Dayton hold community meeting about oil spill
Harris County judge orders Jay Management Company to stop oil services in small Dayton community