National City leaders have given their approval for a 4.8-acre electric truck charging station to be built on Tidelands Avenue. The station, which will have the capacity to recharge up to 70 big-rig trucks, is part of a wider Port of San Diego effort to convert maritime operations from diesel to electric power.

Community Support

Residents have expressed their support for the project, with many citing the potential reduction in pollution as a major benefit. “I agree with this project,” said resident and environmental activist Alicia Sanchez. “That’s what we need here in National City because it would help reduce pollution.”

The City Council voted 2-1 to send a letter of support to the Port of San Diego, with Mayor Ron Morrison being the lone dissenting voice. Morrison expressed concerns about the risk of battery fires and the potential increased costs to the city.

City Council Dynamics

The vote highlights the often contentious dynamics of the National City Council. Councilmembers Ditas Yamane and Mayor Morrison got into a heated exchange during the discussion, with Yamane cutting off Morrison and the two raising their voices.

Despite the tensions, the council did come together to unanimously vote to solicit bids for an outside facilitator to help the council and city manager work together more effectively. This move is seen as a step towards addressing the city’s budget deficit and other pressing issues.

New city manager Doug Schultze has already begun making the rounds in National City, listening to community members and assessing the city’s problems. Schultze acknowledged the significant budget deficit and the need for drastic action to avoid going over the edge.

Original reporting: Voice of San Diego — read the source article.