In a recent government meeting held in San Bernardino, officials addressed pressing concerns regarding the Waterman Landfill, a site with a complex history that dates back to its operation as a municipal landfill from 1950 to 1960. Nestled at the southern edge of the Santa Ana River, the landfill has become a focal point for environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance.

The city, which operated the landfill, has been under scrutiny since 1994 when it began conducting SWAT testing to monitor potential water contamination. In 2005, a methane gas collection system was installed, allowing the city to convert methane into electricity. However, issues arose in 2017 when monitoring probes detected elevated methane levels, prompting the San Bernardino County Department of Environmental Health to issue a notice of violation.

Despite addressing three of the required actions, the city failed to complete the fourth, coinciding with a period of financial turmoil. Last August, the local enforcement agency notified the city of its non-compliance, raising concerns about potential waste beyond the landfill's historical boundaries. This prompted a call for additional monitoring and investigation into the landfill's footprint.

During the meeting, officials sought approval for a new agreement to conduct trenching and boring to accurately identify the extent of the landfill waste. This step is crucial for understanding the source of the methane readings and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

As the city moves forward with these measures, the implications for public health and environmental safety remain at the forefront of discussions, highlighting the ongoing challenges of managing legacy waste sites. The approval of this agreement marks a significant step in addressing these critical issues, ensuring that the community remains informed and protected.