We have listed some helpful talking points below, but feel free to use your own experiences to back up your position.

• • My name is [First name Last name], and I live in [City Councilmember]‘s district.

• • I believe our communities have a right to clean, safe water. The City must adequately invest in stormwater management that protects the public from pollution, flooding, and property damage.

• • The City must continue moving forward to fulfill recommendation #6 of the 2018 Performance Audit of the Stormwater Division.

• • San Diego needs to capture and treat our stormwater. Toxic pollution threatens our neighborhoods and closes our beaches. We deserve clean, safe water to support our communities, economy, and recreation.

• • Our aging stormwater infrastructure threatens our most vulnerable communities. Heavy rains flood our streets and pollute our neighborhoods. Sewage systems leak into nearby stormwater pipes and waterways. These are dangerous public health risks that disproportionately affect environmental justice and frontline communities.

• • The City’s reports show a stormwater budget shortfall of almost $2 billion dollars. We need clean, safe water for San Diego and a dedicated stormwater revenue source to address the shortfall.

• • Stormwater solutions are climate solutions. We can clean our waters, reduce flooding, create local green jobs, address climate change, and increase safe and secure water supplies. Increased stormwater funding can turn a liability into a regional asset.

Thank you very much for your time.

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Congratulations, you’ve raised your voice on an important issue! You’ve fulfilled an important aspect of your civic duty. Our waters thank you.