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San Diego council affirms opposition to proposed federal offshore oil and gas leases
Summary
The City Council voted Jan. 13 to adopt a resolution opposing the federal proposal to open new oil and gas leases in U.S. waters, citing environmental and economic risks. The measure passed with broad council and public support.
The San Diego City Council approved a resolution on Jan. 13 reaffirming the city’s opposition to proposed federal oil and gas leases on the outer continental shelf, a policy the council first opposed in 2018.
Brian Elliott, policy director for Council President Lacava, summarized the administration’s request: the federal proposal includes lease sites off Southern California and San Diego, with possible lease dates beginning as early as 2027. Elliott said the city should oppose the plan because offshore drilling threatens marine life, commercial fishing, recreation and national‑defense operations, and would be inconsistent with San Diego’s local climate action goals.
"Events like the Deepwater Horizon or even smaller leaks in wells would have the same effects here in San Diego," Elliott said.
Public testimony supporting the resolution included a student speaker from YouthV Oil, an associate director from WildCoast and a Sierra Club representative, each urging the council to oppose offshore drilling because of risks to ecosystems, local economies and public health. A remote speaker referenced language in the city charter that prohibits construction or operation of facilities related to offshore drilling within 100 nautical miles, urging strict enforcement.
Council President Lacava moved the resolution and Councilmember Ilo Rivera seconded. Councilmembers emphasized protecting the coastline, safeguarding marine ecosystems and promoting the city’s climate objectives. The council adopted the resolution on a recorded vote (passed 7–0 with absences recorded). The city clerk will transmit the approved resolution as the city's official comment on the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s proposed program.
The resolution does not itself block federal action but records the city’s formal opposition and directs city staff to file the council’s position with the appropriate federal agency.
