San Diego Coastkeeper today released its annual report card grading the city’s elected officials for their votes on issues impacting local water quality.
The environmental group gave Mayor Jerry Sanders a C+, the lowest grade it issued, and the first time it evaluated Sanders. It docked points for his rejection of water recycling and for not taking action on the Point Loma Wastewater Treatment Plant. The facility, which pipes San Diego sewage 4.5 miles offshore, doesn’t meet federal treatment standards.
Sanders recently said he would recommend the city seek another waiver of those standards, citing the potential $1.5 billion cost of upgrades. That decision was not factored into his grade.
Sanders received good marks for his support of water and sewer rate increases and the city’s storm water pollution prevention program.
Council members scored higher marks than the mayor and were evaluated on a broader range of decisions — from a symbolic San Onofre toll road resolution to sewer construction projects.
Councilwoman Toni Atkins scored a perfect A+. Council members Scott Peters, Kevin Faulconer, Tony Young, Donna Frye and Ben Hueso were each awarded an A-. Councilman Jim Madaffer was given a B; Councilman Brian Maienschein rounded out the bunch with a B-.