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Imperial Beach council asks governor to declare state of emergency over Tijuana River pollution
Summary
The council unanimously approved a letter asking Gov. Newsom to declare a state of emergency for the Tijuana River transboundary pollution crisis, adding language on elevated hydrogen sulfide readings, known carcinogens in toxic aerosols, escalating public‑health impacts and an offer to host a site visit.
The Imperial Beach City Council voted unanimously May 6 to send a letter to Governor Gavin Newsom requesting a declaration of emergency for the Tijuana River transboundary pollution crisis and asking state action to address the public‑health and environmental impacts.
Councilmember Nakawadise framed the request as a final unified appeal after worsening conditions and highlighted new air‑monitoring results. "Recent air monitoring data confirmed that hydrogen sulfide levels in the Tijuana River Valley exceeded federal exposure guidelines, reaching concentrations above thresholds established to protect human health," she said while proposing that language be added to the draft letter. Councilmembers asked that the letter also reference detected toxic aerosols that include known carcinogens and note escalating public‑health concerns, including respiratory irritation, headaches and mental‑health impacts connected to community anxiety.
Councilmembers debated tone and strategy—some urged stronger language toward the governor while others favored a mix of firm asks and offers to collaborate. Mayor Pro Tem Fisher urged the council to call out mental‑health effects tied to loss of recreational use and community wellbeing; council agreed to incorporate edits. Staff confirmed the letter could be amended in the document and the city seal would be added.
The council approved the final motion to send the letter with the agreed edits and an offer to host state officials for a community tour. The motion carried unanimously.
