Readers split on EPA chief’s sewage ‘solution’ announcement

Re “EPA director announces ‘permanent 100% solution’ on Tijuana River sewage crisis” (July 24): Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Mexico that addressed the “environmental, public health and national security consequences” of transboundary wastewater contamination.

Under Zeldin, the EPA announced plans to cut agency jobs, eliminate its scientific research arm and reduce its budget by 65%. In March, the agency informed coal- and oil-burning power plants that they could potentially bypass environmental restrictions. This month, Zeldin announced the closure of the EPA’s Office of Research and Development.

Excuse me while I hold my breath, literally.

— Frank J Lepiane, San Diego

For decades, San Diego suffered from the Tijuana sewage crisis while politicians measured success by endless dialogue and dollars spent rather than problems solved. We’ve seen this pattern on homelessness, border security, drug addiction, public safety and education — with the same or worsening conditions.

Now EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin — within months after taking office — announced a “100% permanent solution” through direct diplomatic pressure on Mexico. No multimillion-dollar programs or decades-long studies — just clear demands and accountability.

While Democratic leadership complains about issues and announces new spending programs, we’re seeing what problem-solving delivers: actual results. While Democrats perfect ways to spend more, Trump (yes, I said Trump) gets results. It’s time San Diego embraces this results-first approach across all challenges. Let’s support leaders who get things done, not those who just get things funded.

— Doug Austin, Rancho Santa Fe