Laura Kranzler urges Ventura County APCD board to investigate alleged workplace retaliation and discrimination
May 12, 2026 | Ventura County, California
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
Laura Kranzler, speaking during the public-comment period at the Ventura County Air Pollution Control Board meeting on May 12, 2026, urged the board to provide a clear process for staff to obtain answers and an independent review of ongoing workplace concerns.
Kranzler said several staff members, family members of staff and SEIU representatives have repeatedly come before the board and submitted formal letters asking for an independent investigation. She told the board the concerns center on retaliation, discrimination, declining morale and workplace toxicity, and specifically named the air pollution control officer, Ali Ghasemi, and administrative services human resources manager, Nancy Mendoza.
"What is the appropriate process for staff to take in order to receive answers, transparency, and meaningful follow through from the board regarding these concerns?" Kranzler asked. "Seeking accountability and a safe and professional workplace. Staff are looking for reassurance that these concerns are being taken seriously, independently evaluated, and addressed in a way that restores trust within our organization."
Kranzler said former senior staff — including a former compliance manager, former deputy air pollution control officer and a former air pollution control officer — have submitted letters of concern and requests for independent review. She also said that repeated public comments, written correspondence, petitions and union involvement have not resulted in visible action or accountability.
Board members did not take a formal action in response to Kranzler's remarks during the meeting record; staff closed the public-comment item and the board proceeded to the next agenda item.
What happens next: Kranzler asked the board to clarify what avenues remain available to employees seeking an independent investigation; the transcript does not show any board response that established such a process during the meeting.
Kranzler said several staff members, family members of staff and SEIU representatives have repeatedly come before the board and submitted formal letters asking for an independent investigation. She told the board the concerns center on retaliation, discrimination, declining morale and workplace toxicity, and specifically named the air pollution control officer, Ali Ghasemi, and administrative services human resources manager, Nancy Mendoza.
"What is the appropriate process for staff to take in order to receive answers, transparency, and meaningful follow through from the board regarding these concerns?" Kranzler asked. "Seeking accountability and a safe and professional workplace. Staff are looking for reassurance that these concerns are being taken seriously, independently evaluated, and addressed in a way that restores trust within our organization."
Kranzler said former senior staff — including a former compliance manager, former deputy air pollution control officer and a former air pollution control officer — have submitted letters of concern and requests for independent review. She also said that repeated public comments, written correspondence, petitions and union involvement have not resulted in visible action or accountability.
Board members did not take a formal action in response to Kranzler's remarks during the meeting record; staff closed the public-comment item and the board proceeded to the next agenda item.
What happens next: Kranzler asked the board to clarify what avenues remain available to employees seeking an independent investigation; the transcript does not show any board response that established such a process during the meeting.
Don't Miss a Word: See the Full Meeting!
Go beyond summaries. Unlock every video, transcript, and key insight with a Founder Membership.
✓
Get instant access to full meeting videos
✓
Search and clip any phrase from complete transcripts
✓
Receive AI-powered summaries & custom alerts
✓
Enjoy lifetime, unrestricted access to government data
30-day money-back guarantee
