IMPERIAL BEACH, Calif. — Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre spoke directly to her city Thursday night on the issues that affect them the most in her first state of the city address.
“We’re creating a city where everyone feels secured and valued," said the mayor.
Among the first issues she discussed was the sewage crisis and the transboundary pollution in the city.
“This disaster has profoundly affected our city in every facet of life. It poses serious health risks, environmental, and economic harm to our community our wildlife and our coast. Our community deserves to have clean water and clean air like anyone else," Aguirre said.
Aguirre recognized the need for real solutions and pledged to continue working to stop sewage and contaminants in the coming year, calling the issue her highest priority.
“If our funding request doesn’t make it through congress we’re going to DC and were going to take next appropriate steps… We spearheaded the lawsuit against IBWC we were able to settle, we would hope that would be the last of it but you know, everything is on the table because that is what my community is asking for," said Aguirre.
Mayor Aguirre admitted the city experienced many challenges – including tropical storm Hilary last August, and a boil water order days later. Aguirre says her office is devoted to putting the community first.
“The city’s commitment to emergency preparedness is evident in our swift and coordinated response during crucial times," she added.
The mayor also highlighted the city’s achievements and significant milestones. The overall crime rate in the city continued a downward trend since taking office.
“Imperial Beach is the second safest coastal city in San Diego county," continued Aguirre.
The mayor spoke about her focus to improve and update city parks. She also discussed street and road repairs and significant improvement projects in the works that she says will be an economic driver in the region.
When it comes to homelessness, the mayor says she is pushing for more housing rights for the unhoused population and claimed Imperial Beach saw a 24% reduction in homelessness from previous years.
"This is all the good that we don’t get to celebrate on a daily basis," said Mayor Aguirre.
Looking ahead for 2024, the mayor vowed continue to fight for the people of Imperial Beach, local businesses, and making the city accessible and inclusive for all.
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