San Diego City Council

Scott County officials declared a Local Emergency in response to the impacts of Hurricane Helene on September 27, establishing an emergency shelter for those affected. Meanwhile, the San Diego City Council unanimously passed a resolution requesting a federal declaration of a national emergency to address chronic sewage pollution from the Tijuana River, which has been a long-standing issue since 1993. Residents expressed their frustrations at the meeting, citing health concerns due to toxic gases and foul odors, with some stating they felt forgotten by the federal government. Councilwoman Vivian Moreno articulated fears for her child's health amid this crisis, while Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre shared her personal health struggles linked to the environmental conditions. The resolution aims to unlock additional federal funding for infrastructure improvements to combat the pollution. This ongoing sewage crisis has led to millions of gallons of toxic waste flowing into the U.S. from Mexico daily.