OC agencies oppose plan to reduce stormwater pollution in the Santa Ana River Basin.
City and county officials, labor unions, and environmental advocates recently congregated at Loma Linda City Council to voice their perspectives during a meeting held by the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board regarding proposed stormwater regulations aimed at reducing pollution. The board, an integral division of California’s environmental agency, is working on new guidelines intended to mitigate contaminants from storm drains and flood control channels in the extensive Santa Ana River Basin, which stretches from the San Bernardino Mountains to the Pacific Ocean.
The proposed regulations, encapsulated in what is termed the “Regional MS4 Permit,” have prompted significant pushback from local officials. The board did not reach a decision on the permit during the meeting, with a vote now scheduled for September 11. Various stakeholders articulated their concerns about the potential ramifications of the new rules, particularly the financial burden they may impose on local governments and residents.
Kris Murray, a member of the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board, emphasized the urgency of establishing a permitting framework, indicating that local agencies must enhance their systems to prevent trash and contaminants from entering waterways. Dawn Rowe, chair of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors, articulated that the proposed regulations could necessitate an estimated investment of billion over the next 20 years for the county and its municipalities, as indicated by an economic impact report commissioned from Beacon Economics. Such costs, Rowe noted, could be overwhelmingly passed on to residents, particularly those in lower-income brackets who might already be struggling economically.
In contrast, Eric Lindberg, the executive officer of the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board, rebuffed claims of exaggerated compliance costs associated with the new permit. He argued that the proposed regulations would provide a structured approach to identifying and addressing areas that fall short in achieving water quality improvements.
The discussion surrounding enforcement of the new runoff regulations remains a contentious point, with advocates from organizations like the Orange County Coastkeeper calling for stricter measures. The group raised concerns about the commitment of elected officials to prioritize clean water initiatives amid competing interests.
Amanda Carr, deputy director for Orange County Environmental Resources, underscored the necessity for collaboration in crafting the permit, aiming to incorporate input from various stakeholders, including environmental groups.
As the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board’s upcoming meeting approaches, stakeholders across the region are watching closely to see how these crucial water quality regulations will evolve and the implications they may have on local communities. The fate of the MS4 permit will be determined at the board’s next meeting, slated for September 11 at the Irvine Ranch Water District.
