EPA chief Zeldin launches talks with Mexico to end sewage hitting San Diego, Navy SEALs: ‘Out of patience’
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin visited San Diego on Tuesday to address the longstanding issue of Mexican sewage flowing into U.S. waters from Tijuana, which has been contaminating the California coast, including areas where Navy SEALs train. Zeldin expressed frustration with the situation, stating that Americans on the U.S. side of the border have been dealing with this problem for decades and are out of patience.
During a press conference in San Diego, Zeldin emphasized the need for urgent action to resolve the sewage crisis. He indicated that he had met with Mexican officials to discuss the issue and that there was a commitment from the Mexican environmental secretary to work collaboratively with the U.S. to address the pollution.
Zeldin outlined specific projects that are being considered to end the sewage contamination, including diverting water from the Tijuana River Valley to relieve stress and implementing infrastructure upgrades on both sides of the border. He stressed the importance of completing all necessary projects to stop the flow of sewage into U.S. waters.
The EPA administrator highlighted the need for Mexico to fulfill its commitments to clean up the contamination caused by outdated wastewater infrastructure. He called for a comprehensive approach to address the issue and ensure that the water in the region is safe for residents, including Navy SEALs and other military personnel.
Local leaders, including California Representatives Darrell Issa and Mike Levin, joined Zeldin at the press conference to show their support for efforts to end the sewage crisis. Representative Levin shared a personal connection to the issue, explaining that his wife’s nephew, who trained as a Navy SEAL in Coronado, developed cancer, possibly due to exposure to toxic sewage in the water.
Zeldin also highlighted the impact of contaminated water on Navy SEAL candidates, citing a report from the Department of Defense’s inspector general that documented cases of acute gastrointestinal illnesses among candidates. He emphasized the need to address the health risks associated with exposure to polluted water during training exercises.
Overall, Zeldin’s visit to San Diego underscored the urgency of addressing the Mexican sewage flowing into U.S. waters and the commitment of both countries to finding a solution. The EPA administrator’s efforts to work collaboratively with Mexican officials and local leaders demonstrate a shared commitment to protecting the environment and public health in the region.
