Fighting for Our Region in Washington, D.C. — Here’s What You Should Know

Over the past three days, I’ve been in Washington, D.C., working around the clock to advocate for the issues that matter most to you and our region. I believe in being transparent and open —so I want to share some important updates from this critical trip.

It’s been a busy and productive few days with one goal in mind: bringing practical, common-sense solutions back to Southern California.

While I’ve already shared updates on my meetings with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Housing & Urban Development (HUD) regarding sewage and homelessness, I wanted to keep you informed about several other important issues I addressed:

Sand Replenishment for Our Beaches

Keeping sand on our beaches isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about safety, shoreline protection, tourism, and jobs.

I met with the Director of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to discuss real solutions, including offshore dredging to restore sand to our coastline. Our beaches are one of Southern California’s most precious assets, and we must act now to protect them.

Freeway Improvements – Especially for North County

Too many of our roads and freeways—especially the 78 corridor—have been ignored for too long. While SANDAG and the State continue to overpromise and underdeliver, I brought these concerns directly to the Department of Transportation.

I’m working with federal officials to get the infrastructure investments our region deserves—because your tax dollars should be working for you, not sitting in a bureaucratic black hole.

San Onofre & Spent Nuclear Fuel

One of the most vital meetings I had was with Paul Murray, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Spent Fuel and High Level Waste Disposal.

The fact that spent nuclear fuel is still sitting at San Onofre—years after promises to move it—is unacceptable.

The U.S. is spending $500 million annually just to store this waste onsite. I pushed for a permanent solution that prioritizes public safety and fiscal responsibility, and I won’t stop until one is in place.

These are just a few of the meetings I had—but I wanted to make sure you stayed in the loop. Real solutions are possible, but only if we stay engaged, focused, and keep the pressure on.

I’ll continue fighting for our region—and I’ll continue updating you every step of the way.

San Diego County District 5 Supervisor Jim Desmond | April 11, 2025

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