Thank you to everyone who joined the special Chiquita Canyon Landfill (CCL) Community Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting on the landfill disaster on Monday in Castaic. It is my priority to ensure you stay updated on our ongoing efforts to safeguard the health and safety of everyone impacted by this terrible crisis.
We know the ongoing chemical fire at Chiquita Canyon Landfill is making the people of Val Verde, Castaic, and Santa Clarita sick. When I stayed at a neighbor's home for just one night I also experienced symptoms, which I documented in my video diary here and included a headache, burning eyes, throat and skin, bloody nose and even shortness of breath. All this after just 12 hours in Val Verde, and only a little more than an hour of any outdoor exposure. You can also hear stories from neighbors of the landfill about what symptoms they are experiencing at the Community Press Conference we held on October 15 that was covered by KTLA, CBS, and SCVTV.
The most important update is the California Water Board, Los Angeles Region has denied an expansion of the landfill because of the ongoing fire and crisis. Because the landfill is on track to reach maximum capacity in the next two months, this should effectively close the landfill. I'm grateful to the State Water Board for this decisive action so we can stop piling trash on top of already toxic air that is making our community sick. While this is a significant development, we also need to be clear that even if the landfill closed immediately, there still wouldn't be a quick fix for the underground smoldering event (also referred to as a chemical fire). It will likely take years for it to burn out, even with the ongoing mitigation and management that is being done. That's why our focus is on a long term plan and immediate steps needed to protect our community.
As you may know, 16 legislators joined my second letter to Governor Newsom, asking for a State of Emergency declaration. While the California Office of Emergency Services has denied that request, we did have a productive meeting with the Governor's office to discuss ways in which the needs of the community can still be met, and we are meeting again this week to discuss possible next steps. We will report back with new information as soon as possible.
In the community survey conducted by our office, we confirmed that nearly all respondents have personally experienced, or know someone who has experienced, health impacts, including severe headaches, respiratory issues, heart palpitations, and other alarming symptoms. Tragically, some residents have even faced a cancer diagnosis possibly related to the benzene, a known carcinogen, being leaked into the air by the CCL. Neighbors have told me of vertigo and tremors that have taken their ability to work, as well as heart palpitations and shortness of breath landing them in hospital emergency rooms. This crisis demands urgent action, and I remain committed to fighting for the protections and resources you deserve.
Protecting public health is my greatest concern, which is why the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) mainly "monitoring" and "logging symptoms" for over a year is shockingly insufficient. I've requested several immediate actions from LACDPH to address the landfill's impacts on public health.
As a result of our pressure, LACDPH is finally taking action:
- Resident Impact Survey: Following our meeting last week with the LACDPH and other agencies, I requested a formal survey to gather direct feedback from residents affected by the landfill. This door-to-door and online survey will allow LACDPH to assess the health, environmental, and daily impacts faced by residents, giving more information on the extent of health impacts, and what is needed in direct support and to protect our community.
- Meeting with Castaic School District & Families Requested: To further address health and safety concerns, I have requested LACDPH meet with the Castaic School Superintendent and convene a special meeting for parents, educators, and school staff. This gathering will focus on health symptoms, safe practices, and ways to minimize exposure risks for our students and staff. I am awaiting a response.
Ongoing Advocacy & Key Updates
In the next few months, we expect significant developments that can directly affect the landfill's future:
- State Water Board Action to Close Landfill: We are in the final stages of a decision from the state water board regarding the landfill, and it's possible that action taken could impact its operations, with the potential for closure. This remains a top priority as we push for measures to reduce harm to our community.
- Legal Action, Damages & Relocation Support: As part of our advocacy, we have urged the County to explore options for relocation assistance for affected residents, as well as potential financial damages to compensate for the health and environmental toll this crisis has taken. This includes support for alternative housing options where needed, and I am advocating for resources to make relocation as accessible and supported as possible. At Monday's meeting, it was reported that preparation has started for legal action by the County against CCL. We will be monitoring to see if legal remedies sought would provide support for relocation and financial aid to the community.
- Legislation: In preparation for the beginning of the legislative session in December, I am preparing legislation that would exclude any assistance provided by CCL to residents from state taxation.
The health and safety of Val Verde, Castaic, and our neighboring Santa Clarita communities remains my top priority. Please know that I am dedicated to working alongside you to achieve real change and relief for our community.
Thank you for your resilience, and for joining me in the fight for a healthier and safer community. I will keep you updated on these efforts and continue to advocate for the protections we urgently need.
Onward,
PILAR SCHIAVO
Assemblywoman, 40th District
