Trump administration to ‘confront crisis’ of sewage flowing from Mexico at San Diego border town
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Lee Zeldin, the Environmental Protection Agency Administrator under the Trump administration, has announced plans to visit the San Diego-Mexico border in the near future. Zeldin aims to assess the increasing toxic waste and sewage runoff from the Tijuana River, which has led to over 1,000 beach closures at Imperial Beach and caused health issues among Navy SEAL trainees.
In a statement to Fox News Digital, Zeldin emphasized the need for Mexico to fulfill its commitment to controlling pollution and sewage that impacts the United States. He stated, “The time for excuses, delays, or exceptions is over.” Zeldin expressed his agency’s determination to work closely with local agencies in Southern California and Mexico to address the crisis effectively.
The longstanding issue of untreated sewage flowing from Tijuana into San Diego’s beaches worsened earlier this year when the Hollister Wastewater Pump Station malfunctioned, resulting in a significant spill into the river. While federal funding has been proposed for repairs and expansion of the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant, some Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, oppose it, citing concerns about wasteful spending.
An EPA official highlighted the importance of Mexico treating its own waste and investing in proper infrastructure to prevent sewage discharge into the ocean. San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond described the situation as a significant environmental and public health crisis, calling for urgent action to protect residents and visitors from contaminated water.
Recent reports from the Department of Defense’s Inspector General revealed alarming levels of bacteria in the water, leading to over 1,100 cases of health issues among Navy SEALs after training in the polluted environment. Governor Gavin Newsom’s office acknowledged the ongoing efforts to address the Tijuana River pollution and expressed willingness to collaborate with the Trump administration on cleanup initiatives.
As EPA chief Lee Zeldin prepares to visit San Diego County to address the sewage issue, it is evident that coordinated efforts are necessary to safeguard public health and the environment. Stay informed with Fox News for updates on this critical issue and other important developments.
