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Residents press San Clemente Council for action on San Onofre waste canisters during public comment
Summary
Multiple residents told the council they fear the temporary canisters holding San Onofre nuclear waste are degrading and asked the city to direct staff to develop a plan to remove canisters to permanent storage. Speakers cited historical incidents and scientific concerns; council did not take formal action on the issue at the meeting.
Several residents used the City Council public‑comment period to urge San Clemente leaders to press state and federal authorities for removal of spent nuclear fuel canisters stored at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station.
Speakers described the canisters as temporary storage designed for 5–7 years and raised concerns about stress corrosion, embrittlement and other aging issues. Donna Vadrine told council, “The canisters holding this waste were designed only for temporary storage and short term transport, 5 to 7 years. They are already degrading and once compromised, they may become immovable.”
Other public speakers referenced historical accidents and broader industry issues. Roger Johnson and Warren Vadrine recounted incidents at other sites and argued for regional research and removal planning. Ron Rodarte suggested the Coastal Commission could compel Southern California Edison to provide required documentation if the council sought its assistance.
City discussion: Council members and staff acknowledged the community concern and several councilmembers asked staff and the city manager whether the council could adopt a resolution to amplify the request to state and federal agencies. Andy Hall, the city manager, said the city can speak for the community but noted that certain technical and jurisdictional limits apply; staff suggested the topic could be discussed further and noted the SONGS Committee Action Panel planned a public forum on Oct. 16 exclusively addressing canister issues.
Action: Council did not adopt a formal resolution at the Aug. 19 meeting. Staff and council discussed whether to revisit the topic on a future agenda and whether to coordinate with the SONGS Committee Action Panel and state representatives.
