Urgent Concerns Rise as Landfill Task Force Acknowledges Health Risks

UPDATE: In a startling revelation, the multi-agency task force addressing the Chiquita Canyon Landfill has acknowledged ongoing health risks impacting residents, following months of mounting complaints. During the October 14, 2023 meeting of the Chiquita Canyon Landfill Community Advisory Committee, Todd Sax, chief of the enforcement division for the California Air Resources Board, confirmed that residents’ health issues are likely linked to persistent odorous compounds emitted from the landfill.

Residents of Castaic and Val Verde have endured these issues since early 2023, leading to a surge in health complaints including headaches, bloody noses, and even tremors. 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.” He further elaborated that exposure to these odors could worsen symptoms when residents return to the area.

Despite these admissions, Sax did not address alarming claims of cancer clusters reported by affected residents, which are central to ongoing litigation involving thousands against the landfill and its parent company, Waste Connections. Legal battles are intensifying as Los Angeles County seeks relief for residents, especially after the landfill abruptly ended its relief fund in February, claiming improvements in conditions.

Authorities have reported that approximately 200,000 gallons of leachate are still being produced daily from the site, raising serious environmental and health concerns. Observations indicate the landfill’s “underground elevated temperature event” may have even doubled in size, contradicting the landfill’s public assertions that conditions are improving.

The situation is dire, with legal proceedings facing delays due to an appeals process already underway. Sax emphasized the need for further studies on the holistic effects of constant exposure to these pollutants, acknowledging that current health risk assessments may not be comprehensive.

During the advisory meeting, Sax reassured the community that officials are actively monitoring pollutants, although he cautioned that definitive answers about the exact causes of lingering symptoms remain elusive. He stated, “We did go back and take a look at what pollutants are we monitoring, and should we be looking for more.” However, residents pressed for a definitive community health survey, which has yet to be conducted.

In response to the ongoing legal situation, Stephanie English, a representative for Los Angeles County, provided an update stating that the judge has ruled in favor of the county but requested the parties to reach an agreement within 30 days. The county seeks to relocate residents of 900 homes, but the landfill’s appeal has stalled progress.

English expressed cautious optimism, stating, “We hope and believe that Judge Maame Frimpong will finish her work and complete her ruling in our favor.” The urgency surrounding this situation is palpable, as residents await crucial decisions that could significantly impact their health and safety.

As this story develops, the community remains on edge, grappling with uncertainty about their health and the future of their environment. Local officials continue to push for answers, but the path to resolution is complex and fraught with challenges. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and engaged as the situation unfolds.