Urgent Health Concerns Emerge at Chiquita Canyon Landfill Meeting

UPDATE: Health concerns surrounding the Chiquita Canyon Landfill have intensified after a recent meeting on October 14, 2023, where officials acknowledged ongoing health issues affecting local residents. This urgent revelation comes as complaints have surged since early 2023, leaving many in Castaic and Val Verde desperate for answers.

During the meeting, Todd Sax, head of the California Air Resources Board’s enforcement division, confirmed that the task force has yet to determine the full extent of health impacts linked to the landfill. Sax stated, “We’ve been arguing about this among the various agencies… our best estimate of the public health impact is that it is caused by odorous compounds.” Residents have reported symptoms including bloody noses, headaches, and tremors, which Sax attributes to exposure to these compounds.

The landfill, operated by Waste Connections, has faced mounting criticism as it announced in February the termination of its relief fund, claiming improvements. This contradicts findings from state officials who report that the landfill’s “underground elevated temperature event” is expanding, potentially doubling in size. Alarmingly, approximately 200,000 gallons of leachate continue to be produced daily, raising significant environmental and health concerns.

Despite the growing evidence, Sax did not address claims of cancer clusters among residents, which are now part of ongoing litigation. Thousands of residents, alongside Los Angeles County, are pursuing legal action against the landfill, seeking accountability for the health impacts they face.

The situation remains precarious, with no clear timeline for resolution. Sax emphasized the need for further studies but admitted that the complexities of the pollutants make comprehensive assessments challenging. “What we can tell you is that we think we’re monitoring for the right things,” he explained, while acknowledging the limitations of current data.

Calls for a definitive community health survey have gone unanswered, leaving residents frustrated. Sax commented, “I don’t know the answer to that question, all I know is the various agencies.” Meanwhile, the county has been exploring a Community Assessment for Public Health Emergency Response (CASPER) study to address these concerns but has yet to finalize any actionable results.

Legal representatives for the affected communities have reported that delays in court proceedings are prolonging the search for relief. Stephanie English, a field representative for Supervisor Kathryn Barger, stated, “The judge ruled in the county’s favor but requested both parties to reach an agreement within 30 days.” However, the landfill’s response has been to file an appeal, further complicating the matter.

As of now, residents are left with lingering health concerns and unanswered questions about the safety of their environment. With the legal battles and health implications escalating, the community is calling for immediate action to ensure their safety and well-being.

This developing story highlights the urgent need for transparency and effective solutions to the ongoing crisis at Chiquita Canyon Landfill. Local officials must prioritize the health of residents, as the situation continues to evolve and affect daily lives in Castaic and Val Verde.

Stay tuned for updates on this critical issue as it unfolds.