Wilk Calls On Governor Newsom To Visit Chiquita Canyon Landfill Amid Ongoing Public Health, Environmental Crisis

Today Sen. Scott Wilk (R-Santa Clarita) delivered a letter to Governor Gavin Newsom inviting him to tour the Chiquita Canyon Landfill, where an underground fire continues to impact the environment, health, safety, and wellbeing of residents in adjacent communities.

“Every day for the last two years residents of Val Verde and Castaic have had to put up with the foul, overwhelming odors coming out of the landfill. Worse than that, it’s making them sick,” said Senator Wilk. “While state, county, and federal agencies have been working to fix the problem, real relief is long overdue. This crisis certainly rises to the level of the governor, and I strongly urge him to visit the site and experience situation firsthand.”

Since May 2022, an underground chemical fire at the landfill has generated noxious odors, hazardous leachate, and elevated levels of benzene. As a result, tens of thousands of complaints have been filed by residents citing respiratory issues, eye irritation, nausea, and more.

In various meetings with state agencies involved in the cleanup, it has been determined that declaring a State of Emergency is not necessary to expedite odor mitigation or resident relief efforts.

However, in his letter, Senator Wilk highlighted residents’ frustration with the slow progress and the dismissal of their concerns about long-term health effects. He emphasized that the governor’s visit is crucial to accelerating action:

“Your presence would strongly underscore the state’s commitment to resolving this crisis. A visit would provide a firsthand look at the severity of the situation, and allow for direct dialogue with affected residents and stakeholders. It may also inspire potential new solutions and increased support. I urge you to prioritize this visit and help bring much-needed visibility to this ongoing public health and environmental issue.

Click HERE to read the full letter.

The above information was provided by Scott Wilk’s Office.

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