County supervisor proposes review of Tijuana River Valley cleanup options

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Chair of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors Nora Vargas has introduced a motion that aims to explore immediate solutions to address the ongoing environmental crisis in the Tijuana River Valley.

The motion directs the county’s chief administrative officer to conduct a comprehensive analysis of legal options and funding opportunities available at both state and federal levels, including the possibility of an EPA Superfund designation.

“My top priority is ensuring that the residents of District 1 receive the immediate relief they deserve,” Vargas stated. “While I understand the intent behind a Superfund designation, it does not guarantee funding and could instead create more barriers for our already affected communities.

Vargas warned that the uncertainties tied to a Superfund designation could jeopardize the pace of cleanup efforts.

“The process is lengthy and complex, potentially taking decades before any meaningful cleanup begins. Initial assessments can take three or more years, and if a site qualifies, it may be years before cleanup efforts even start,” she continued. “This poses a significant risk of delaying local initiatives already in progress, further impacting the health and well-being of residents in our region.”

A report will be due in 90 days.

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