DAVIS, CA (MPG) – It is with profound sadness that the Yolo-Solano Air Quality Management District (YSAQMD) announces the passing of Executive Director and Air Pollution Control Officer Mat Ehrhardt, P.E. on June 26, 2022.

“We are deeply shocked and saddened by this sudden and tragic loss. It was a great privilege to know him personally and work alongside Mat for more than 28 years,” Paul Hensleigh, Deputy Air Pollution Control Officer said.

Mr. Ehrhardt held a degree in Mechanical Engineering from California State University of Sacramento, where he was on the Dean’s list (1990-1992) and a member of the Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society. He came to the District in 1997 as an Associate Air Quality Engineer, earning his Professional Engineering license in Mechanical Engineering in 1997 before promoting to Supervising Air Quality Engineer in 2000 and Deputy Air Pollution Control Officer in 2002. In 2005, Mr. Ehrhardt became the Executive Director of YSAQMD, leading operations for nearly 20 years.

Board Chair and Rio Vista Mayor Ronald Kott stated, "Mat served the Board of Directors with unwavering dedication, protecting and improving air quality for communities within the District. His knowledge and leadership will be sorely missed. I extend my sympathies to his family during this time."

Mat was a strong advocate for clean air, but in a way that made sense for all stakeholders, including the regulated community. Though Yolo-Solano is a medium size district, Mat’s impact on statewide air quality policy issues was undeniable, including serving as President of the California Air Pollution Control Officer’s Association from 2009 to 2010.

Yolo County Supervisor Donald Saylor and longtime Board Member recalled “Mat was universally respected by staff, the Board and colleagues in air quality management throughout the state and nation. On top of that, he was a warm human being and friend to all. His loss will be deeply felt. My condolences and best wishes to his family at this very stunning time.”

District staff extend their deepest condolences to his wife, daughter and family and asks to keep them in your thoughts at this difficult time. Any details regarding services will be provided on the District website, www.ysaqmd.org, when they are available.