cc 2026 AR 08/11 expanding vista's foam ban to retail establishments

ACTION:
____________________________
Clerk/Secretary
Department: City Manager Item No: D3
Prepared by: Cassidy McCarthy, CAP Program Administrator Meeting Date: August 11, 2026 Approved by:

Imelda Huerta, Assistant City Manager
John Conley, City Manager Agenda Location: Discussion
SUBJECT: EXPANDING VISTA’S FOAM BAN TO RETAIL ESTABLISHMENTS RECOMMENDATION: Discuss the recommendation from Vista’s Environmental Commission and provide direction to staff.

CORRELATION TO CITY COUNCIL GOALS: A Cleaner, More Beautiful Vista; Climate and Environmental Responsibility
PRIOR ACTION: On May 12, 2026, received a recommendation from the Environmental Commission and directed staff to place a discussion item on a future agenda regarding an ordinance to prohibit the retail sales of foam products (Vote 5-0).

On May 27, 2025, adopted City Council Resolution No. 2025-85, approving the 2025-2027 Environmental Commission Workplan (Vote 4-1, Franklin Opposed).

PRIOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION ACTION: On April 22, 2026, voted to recommend that City Council discuss/implement an ordinance to prohibit the retail sales of foam foodware and other foam products in the City of Vista (Vote 5-0, Serafin absent).

On April 23, 2025, voted to recommend the 2025-2027 Environmental Commission Workplan for Council approval (Vote 5-0, Tapia & Serafin absent).

STATEMENT ON THE SUBJECT: In April of 2026, the Environmental Commission (Commission) researched and evaluated the health and environmental impacts, state legislation, and local ordinances regarding a more comprehensive Polystyrene (Foam) ban (Exhibit 1). The Commission recommended that the City of Vista expand upon their current Polystyrene Plastics Reduction ordinance to ban the retail sale of foam food service ware, coolers/ice chests*, shipping/packing materials, pool/beach toys*, dock floats/buoys*, and egg cartons to improve environmental and human health. *These items would be allowable if fully encased in another material.

The current ordinance that the City has in place bans food service providers (restaurants, cafés, etc.) from providing their customers with foam food service ware with prepared food and allows businesses who gross under $1 million annually to apply for a 6-month waiver with an optional additional 6-month waiver after that. This ordinance has been in effect since 2023 and since then, staff have received 29 complaints from the public of food service providers who have been providing foam food service ware AGENDA
REPORT

CITY COUNCIL

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

SUCCESSOR AGENCY

BUENA SANITATION DISTRICT

JOINT POWERS FINANCING AUTHORITY
Directed staff to draft a foam ban ordinance (with exceptions for pool and beach toys) for future consideration. Vote: 4-1 (Franklin opposed)

ACTION:

____________________________
Clerk/Secretary

Department: City Manager Item No: D3
Prepared by: Cassidy McCarthy, CAP Program Administrator Meeting Date: August 11, 2026 Approved by:

Imelda Huerta, Assistant City Manager
John Conley, City Manager Agenda Location: Discussion

SUBJECT: EXPANDING VISTA’S FOAM BAN TO RETAIL ESTABLISHMENTS

RECOMMENDATION: Discuss the recommendation from Vista’s Environmental Commission and provide direction to staff.

CORRELATION TO CITY COUNCIL GOALS: A Cleaner, More Beautiful Vista; Climate and Environmental Responsibility

PRIOR ACTION: On May 12, 2026, received a recommendation from the Environmental Commission and directed staff to place a discussion item on a future agenda regarding an ordinance to prohibit the retail sales of foam products (Vote 5-0).

On May 27, 2025, adopted City Council Resolution No. 2025-85, approving the 2025-2027 Environmental Commission Workplan (Vote 4-1, Franklin Opposed).

On April 23, 2025, voted to recommend the 2025-2027 Environmental Commission Workplan for Council approval (Vote 5-0, Tapia & Serafin absent).

AGENDA
REPORT

CITY COUNCIL

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

SUCCESSOR AGENCY

BUENA SANITATION DISTRICT

JOINT POWERS FINANCING AUTHORITY
08/11/2026 D3 1 of 17

MEETING DATE: August 11, 2026 PAGE 2
SUBJECT: EXPANDING VISTA’S FOAM BAN TO RETAIL ESTABLISHMENTS products to their customers. Staff have reached out and worked with all business owners who have received a complaint, and they are all currently in compliance. None of the businesses received a fee or citation through the compliance process and out of the 29 businesses 11 of them went through the waiver process, with 5 of them using a 6-month waiver and the other 6 using the full year of a waiver. The proposed recommendation would work and operate in the same fashion as the current ordinance, being complaint based, focused on outreach and education over enforcement.

The Commission used the foam portion of the City of Oceanside’s Marine Debris Reduction Ordinance (Exhibit 2) as an example to follow for their recommendation in Vista. Oceanside’s ordinance bans all businesses from selling or distributing foam egg cartons, food service ware, food trays, shipping boxes, packing peanuts or packing materials. It also bans all businesses from selling or distributing foam coolers, ice chests, pool or beach toys, dock floats or buoys unless they are encapsulated or encased in another non-polystyrene foam material. Oceanside does make exceptions for items that are prepared outside of the city and provided to customers as originally packaged, medical packaging, and any products that are pre-packaged outside of the city that use foam as part of the packaging material.

Staff consulted with the City of Oceanside’s Sustainability staff regarding implementation and enforcement of its expanded polystyrene foam ordinance, which took effect in July 2025. Oceanside staff reported that the retail component of the ordinance encountered minimal resistance, while the food service component required more extensive outreach and education. To support implementation, the City partnered with the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce and MainStreet Oceanside to provide information and resources to the local business community.

Since the ordinance became effective, Oceanside staff have observed a decline in complaints related to noncompliance and reported that ongoing implementation and enforcement have not created a significant administrative burden for City staff.

In addition to the local example of Oceanside, other North County San Diego cities have foam bans in place as well. Encinitas has a ban similar to Oceanside’s but does not include pool/beach toys or dock floats, while Carlsbad and San Marcos have a ban similar to what Vista currently has in place, banning food facilities from selling or distributing foam food service ware with their products.

The Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act (SB 54) restricts producers of expanded polystyrene (EPS) food service ware from selling, offering for sale, distributing, or importing EPS food service ware in California unless they demonstrate that the material has achieved specified recycling rates. This includes single-use food service items such as takeout containers, plates, bowls, cups, and trays. To date, the required 25 percent recycling rate has not been achieved; therefore, EPS food service ware producers are currently prohibited from selling, offering for sale, distributing, or importing these products into California (see Exhibit 3).

While SB 54 applies to EPS food service ware, it does not regulate other EPS products, such as protective packaging materials, egg cartons, ice chests, or sporting and pool equipment. Additionally, the law regulates producers rather than retailers and does not prohibit retailers from obtaining these products from sources outside of California.

Based on an initial assessment, staff have identified approximately 100 retail businesses that would be affected by an expansion of the City's expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam ordinance. Staff consulted with the City's Economic Development Manager regarding the potential impacts of expanding the ordinance to include retailers. Based on the City's experience implementing the existing food service provider requirements, the emphasis on education and outreach prior to enforcement, and the existing state regulations governing EPS food service ware, no significant concerns were identified. 08/11/2026 D3 2 of 17

MEETING DATE: August 11, 2026 PAGE 3
SUBJECT: EXPANDING VISTA’S FOAM BAN TO RETAIL ESTABLISHMENTS To further engage the business community, staff contacted the Chamber of Commerce (Chamber) on July 7, 2026, to solicit input on the proposed expansion of the City's expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam ordinance, commonly referred to as a Styrofoam ordinance. In response, the Chamber distributed a survey to its members regarding the proposed expansion of the existing EPS foam ordinance. As of the time this report was prepared, staff have not received any additional comments or feedback from the Chamber. Staff will provide any updates received prior to or during the City Council meeting.

Staff will continue to engage with the business community to solicit feedback, provide education and outreach, and support implementation consistent with any direction provided by the City Council.

FISCAL IMPACT: There are no direct fiscal impacts associated with the staff recommendation.

EXHIBITS:

1. Environmental Commission Research on Expanding Vista’s Foam Ban

2.Oceanside’s Marine Debris Reduction Ordinance

3.SB 54 – EPS Brochure
08/11/2026 D3 3 of 17

City of Vista Environmental Commission Agenda Report

EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE FOAM BAN
FEBRUARY 25, 2026
SUBJECT: Expanded Polystyrene Foam Ban (Subcommittee #1) RECOMMENDATION: Receive report and consider options:

Option 1 — No action: continue with the current foam foodware prohibition for restaurants with no changes
Option 2 — Prohibit retail sales of foam foodware
Option 3 — Prohibit the sale /distribution of additional foam products: ❏Coolers / ice chests (allowable if fully encased in another material)❏Shipping/packing materials❏Pool/beach toys (allowable if fully encased in another material)❏Dock floats / buoys (allowable if fully encased in another material)❏Egg cartons Option 4 — Add the phase-out of recyclable plastic foodware containers and require acceptable compostable foodware*
*Foodware meaning items used for containing, serving, or consuming Prepared Food, including, but not limited to containers, cups, bowls, plates, trays, cartons, boxes.

CORRELATION TO COMMISSION WORKPLAN GOALS:

Workplan Item #1: Expanding Polystyrene Foam Ban.

CORRELATION TO CITY COUNCIL GOALS:

City Council Goals
Goal 4. A Cleaner, More Beautiful Vista
A Increase litter cleanup activities
Goal 5. Climate and Environmental Responsibility
Goal 6. Parks and Recreation
Prioritize cleanliness and state of good repair of our parks and facilities (From the City of Vista’s website)
Climate Action Plan
Measure W-1—Reduce Solid Waste Disposal and Increase Recycling Strategy 6—New Ordinances and Code Updates; Partnerships Goal—Achieve 85% waste diversion citywide by 2030
Current—Diversion rate is 25.9%
(From Climate Action Plan Annual Monitoring Report—November 2024) 08/11/2026 D3 4 of 17
EXHIBIT 1

City of Vista Environmental Commission Agenda Report

EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE FOAM BAN
FEBRUARY 25, 2026

BACKGROUND AND RESEARCH
In 2021, the Vista City Council approved two ordinances regarding the reduction of single-use foodware items and accessories in order to reduce litter and landfill waste.

Ordinance No. 2021-12—The Single-Use Foodware Accessories and Condiments Reduction Ordinance requires that food service providers only provide single-use foodware accessories (straws, stirrers, cutlery, etc.) and packaged condiments when requested by the customer.

Ordinance No. 2021-13—The Polystyrene Plastics Reduction ordinance prohibits food service providers from distributing polystyrene (StyrofoamTM) containers or accessories with prepared food.

Both of these ordinances are officially in effect and have been enforceable since July 2023.

To further reduce single-use plastic waste, an Environmental Commission subcommittee was formed to research and evaluate state legislation and local ordinances in order to make recommendations on expanding the polystyrene foam policy for the City of Vista.

The research completed by the subcommittee validates the need for policy considerations due to environmental and human health impacts.

Polystyrene Foam Recycling
●Light & fragile — breaks easily
●Often contaminated by food left in container
●Large quantity needed to make a bale
●Low market value
●Challenging end markets
●Requires special densification equipment at processing facilities ●80,000 tons generated | 5,000 tons recycled = 6.25% recycled In 2018, 80 thousand tons of polystyrene containers were generated, and a negligible amount (less than 5,000 tons) was recycled in the United States.” Frequently Asked Questions From the EPA
Human Health Impacts
●Added chemicals: Polystyrene products contain additives that can be released over time ●Heat & food: Heat can increase chemical release; Hot, greasy, or acidic foods — and microwaving — can make this more likely; heating food in polystyrene is not recommended ●Chemical exposure: Polystyrene can release styrene, a chemical that may be harmful at high levels
●Cancer risk: Styrene is classified as probably carcinogenic; everyday use is generally low risk ●Microplastics: Can fragment into microplastics; long-term health effects are still being studi ●The Problem with Polystyrene
●Styrofoam and Your Health
●Styrene Hazard Summary
08/11/2026 D3 5 of 17

City of Vista Environmental Commission Agenda Report

EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE FOAM BAN
FEBRUARY 25, 2026
Environmental Impacts
●Surfrider San Diego Marine Debris Report for 2024
○55,875 polystyrene (EPS) foam fragments were recorded
●Fragments into small pieces rather than biodegrading
●Difficult/impossible to clean up
●Lightweight and can easily be carried by wind and washed from streets into storm drains, eventually reaching rivers and oceans.
●Marine animals and sea birds may mistake foam bits for food ●Ingestion may cause gut blockage, feelings of fullness, and exposure to additive chemicals Climate Impacts
●Over 99% of plastic, including polystyrene foam, is made from fossil fuels. ●Polystyrene foam is primarily made from petroleum-derived styrene monomers ●Throughout the lifecycle,from manufacturing to transport to disposal, single-use plastics, including polystyrene foam products, waste energy and create emissions. ●That means every polystyrene foam item contributes to climate change.

State Legislation
SB 54: Plastic Pollution Prevention & Packaging Producer Responsibility Act ●Regulates producers
●Effective Date/Enforcement: January 1, 2025
●The required 25% polystyrene foam foodware recycling rate was not met ●Producers cannot sell, offer for sale, distribute, or import EPS foodware into California ●Compliance actions are ongoing but enforcement not uniform ●Banned EPS products may still be available in stores or online Restaurants/retailers:
●Not directly regulated by SB 54
●Can use foam foodware already in inventory
●Can purchase foam foodware out-of-state for in-restaurant use ●Cannot legally resell banned EPS
CalRecycle's EPS Food Service Ware Notification Portal
Local Policies
Several cities in San Diego County have adopted ordinances that phase out polystyrene foam foodware and other products. The ordinances, which are linked below, are similar in intent and scope.

Oceanside
San Diego
Imperial Beach
Carlsbad
08/11/2026 D3 6 of 17

City of Vista Environmental Commission Agenda Report

EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE FOAM BAN
FEBRUARY 25, 2026
Additional Resources:
●These Four Plastic Items Make Up Almost Half Of All Ocean Trash ●The Truth About Styrofoam Infographic
●Plastic Foam Needs to Go report from Oceana
●International Coastal Cleanup — Links to cleanup reports from Ocean Conservancy ●The Problem with Polystyrene
●Styrofoam and Your Health
●Styrene Hazard Summary
●Fact file: Polystyrene foam bans reduce litter and protect wildlife ●Unveiling the noxious effect of polystyrene microplastics in aquatic ecosystems and their toxicological behavior on fishes and microalgae
●The Problem with Polystyrene
●What the foam?
08/11/2026 D3 7 of 17

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EHIBIT 2

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California’s Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Food Service Ware Requirements What You Need to Know
Use Less. Reuse, Recycle and Compost the Rest.

California’s Packaging
Extended Producer
Responsibility Law
CalRecycle can
provide compliance
assistance.

Find more detailed
information on
the law and EPS
requirements.

Who Do the EPS
Food Service Ware
Requirements Apply To?
Do you make EPS
food service ware?
Are you the owner or
licensee of an EPS food
service ware brand or
trademark?
Do you sell these products?
Do you import or distribute
these products?
Packaging and
Plastic Reforms
The EPS food service ware
requirements are part of California’s
Plastic Pollution Prevention and
Packaging Producer Responsibility Act
reforms, which set strong requirements
for producers to reduce single-use
plastic packaging and food service
ware, and ensure that all of it is
recyclable or compostable.

For more information on the definition
of producer, see PRC section 42041(w).
08/11/2026 D3 16 of 17
EXHIBIT 3

EPS Food Service Ware
Requirements
California’s Plastic Pollution
Prevention and Packaging Producer
Responsibility Act (SB 54, 2022)
restricts producers from selling,
distributing, or importing EPS food
service ware, like plastic foam takeout
containers and cups, in California
unless certain recycling rates are met.

To continue selling EPS food service
ware in the state, EPS food service
ware producers must demonstrate
that all EPS meets a 25% recycling rate
as of January 1, 2025.
• This rate has not been met.
• EPS food service ware producers
can no longer sell or distribute EPS
food service ware.

The law uses a phased compliance
schedule. Producers have time to
adjust and improve recycling systems
as recycling rate requirements are
phased in over time.

What Products Are
Affected?
EPS single-use food service ware
includes:
• Trays, plates, bowls
• Lids, cups, clamshells
• Hinged or lidded containers
See PRC section 42041(e)(1)(B).

Who Must Comply?
Producers must comply with the
restriction. Producers may include
those who:
• Are the owner or licensee of
EPS food service ware brands or
trademarks sold or distributed in
California.
• Are the sellers or distributors of
food service ware in California.

Additional guidance is being
developed. See PRC section 42041(w).

Who Is Exempt?
Small producers, retailers, and
wholesalers may qualify for an
exemption based on size, revenue,
number of retail locations, and market
share. See PRC section 42060.

Many alternative single-use and
reusable materials that are not
impacted by this restriction are
available in the marketplace.

Compliance Schedule
The sale, distribution, or import
restrictions remain in place unless
EPS food service ware producers
demonstrate the following recycling
rate requirements for all EPS:
• 25% on and after Jan. 1, 2025
(not met, restrictions in effect)
• 30% on and after Jan. 1, 2028
• 50% on and after Jan. 1, 2030
• 65% on and after Jan. 1, 2032
• Annually thereafter
Compliance Support
Contact
CalRecycle
Contact the
producer
responsibility
organization.

Report Concerns
Report concerns to
trigger additional
compliance support
from CalRecycle.
08/11/2026 D3 17 of 17

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From:

To: Public Comments
Subject: D3, support expanding \sta"s foam ban to retail Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 12:52:01 PM
Some people who received this message don't often get email from . Learn wny th s is 'moor -an
Dear Mayor Franklin and City Councihnembers,
My name is Allyson Escamilla, and I am a 10th grade student at El Camino High School. I live in Oceanside and spend time in Vista, and I am writing about item D3, the proposed expansion of Vista's polystyrene foam ban to retail establishments.

Oceanside's foam ordinance, which the Commission used as its model, took effect in July 2025 and covers retail sales of foam egg cartons, food service ware, coolers, pool and beach toys, and shipping materials. Oceanside staff reported that the retail side of the ordinance drew minimal resistance from businesses. About 100 retail businesses in Vista would be affected by a similar expansion, and staff have not identified significant concerns based on Oceanside's experience.

Foam breaks apart into microplastics instead of decomposing, and once it reaches a creek or storm drain it is close to impossible to fully remove. The 2024 Surfrider San Diego Marine Debris Report recorded 55,875 polystyrene foam fragments during local cleanups.

I am asking you to direct staff to move forward with drafting the expanded ordinance, following the Environmental Commission's recommendation and the Oceanside model.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely, Allyson El Camino High School
D3

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OCEAN/
Protecting the
World's Oceans
1025 Connecticut Ave., NW Suite 200
Washington, DC 20036
+1,202.a33.3900

OCEANAORG
August 11, 2026
Vista City Council
200 Civic Center Drive
Vista, CA 92084
RE; Agenda Item D3; Expanding Vista's Foam Ban to Retail Establishments Mayor Franklin and Councilmembers,
My name is Lisa Gilfillan, and I am commenting on behalf of Oceana, the largest international advocacy organization dedicated solely to ocean conservation, and as a San Diego County resident. We have long called for the phase -out of unnecessary single -use plastic foam because it is one of the most problematic plastics, and it is difficult to contain, clean up, and recycle.' Vista took an important step in 2021 by restricting expanded polystyrene foam foodware. Oceana supports the Council's effort to build on that progress to extend the ordinance to additional plastic foam products, including packing materials, disposable coolers, egg cartons, and foam pool and beach products.

Plastic foam is especially harmful because it is lightweight and brittle. It breaks into tiny pieces that spread easily through wind and water, are extremely difficult to clean up, and can be mistaken for food by ocean wildlife. In addition, plastic foam poses health threats to people. Only 1% or less of plastic foam waste is recycled annually in the United States.

Oceana's nationwide Ipsos polling, released in 2025, found that 80% of registered American voters support state and local policies to reduce single -use plastic foam.

California has already restricted foam food service ware statewide through SB 54. Vista now has an opportunity to close additional gaps locally. We respectfully urge the Council to adopt a strong and comprehensive expansion of the expanded polystyrene policy, limit unnecessary exemptions, provide clear outreach to affected businesses, and prioritize reusable alternatives rather than replacing foam with another throwaway plastic.

Thank you,
Lisa Gilfillan
Field Campaign Manager for Oceana
[email protected]
2025-Foam-
efort-For-W ea-080625.adf
D3

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From: 3olie Hernandez
To: Public Comments
Subject: D3, support expanding Vistas foam ban to retail Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 11:37:44 AM
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From: mikaela howard
To: Public Comments
Subject D3, support expanding sttta"s foam ban to retail Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 11:15:01 AM
Some people who received this message don't often get email from is important
Learn w
Dear Mayor Frank
in and City Councilmembers,
My name is Mikaela, and I am a 12th student at El Camino. I live in Oceanside and I am writing about item D3, the proposed expansion of Vista's polystyrene foam ban to retail establishments.

Vista's current ordinance has been in effect since July 2023 and only restricts food service providers from distributing foam with prepared food. Since then, the City has received 29 complaints, worked with every business involved, and resolved all of them without a single fee or citation. That track record shows the complaint -based, education -first approach the Environmental Commission is recommending for the retail expansion already works here. Oceanside's foam ordinance, which the Commission used as its model, took effect in July 2025 and covers retail sales of foam egg cartons, food service ware, coolers, pool and beach toys, and shipping materials.

Oceanside staff reported that the retail side of the ordinance drew minimal resistance from businesses. About 100 retail businesses in Vista would be affected by a similar expansion, and staff have not identified significant concerns based on Oceanside's experience. Foam breaks apart into microplastics instead of decomposing, and once it reaches a creek or story drain it is close to impossible to fully remove. The 2024 Surfrider San Diego Marine Debris Report recorded 55,875 polystyrene foam fragments during local cleanups. I am asking you to direct staff to move forward with drafting the expanded ordinance, following the Environmental Commission's recommendation and the Oceanside model.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,
Mikaela Howard El Camino student
D3

From:Janis
To:Public Comments
Subject:Item D3 —support for extending Vista"s foam ban to retail establishments Date:Tuesday, August 11, 2026 1:10:35 PM
Dear Mayor Franklin, Deputy Mayor O’Donnell, and Councilmembers, I am writing as a Vista resident and vice chair of the Environmental CommissionI to express support for Item D3 and the extension of Vista’s expanded polystyrene foam (aka StyrofoamTM) prohibition to retail sales.

Polystyrene foam creates significant environmental problems. It is lightweight, easily dispersed by wind and water, difficult to recover, and breaks apart into smaller and smaller pieces that persist in our environment. I have personally seen the effects at Creek Walk Park and at the Buena Vista Creek Trail when both are littered with foam bits after it rains.

Once these fragments enter our waterways, they are nearly impossible to remove.

The creek pollution in Vista is directly connected to California’s Trash Amendments, which establishes a statewide water-quality objective for trash, prohibits the discharge of trash, and establishes implementation requirements for permitted stormwater and other discharges. The Trash Amendments apply to municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) permittees, and stormwater permits include trash-control requirements and compliance milestones.¹ Preventing foam products from becoming trash in the first place is consistent with the goals of the Trash Amendments and can reduce the need to rely on cleanup and other mitigation measures after pollution has occurred.2 Vista has already taken an important step by prohibiting restaurants and food vendors from using polystyrene foam foodware. It is now time to extend that to retail sales. It does not make sense to restrict food establishments from using these products while still allowing stores to sell them.

Neighboring Oceanside has already taken this action. In August 2023, the Oceanside City Council adopted its Marine Debris Reduction Ordinance, which prohibits both food service providers and retail establishments from distributing polystyrene foam products.

Oceanside’s ordinance covers food service ware as well as additional foam products, including coolers, ice chests, egg cartons, packing material, pool and beach toys not encased in another material, dock floats, and mooring buoys.³ If Oceanside can take this broader approach, Vista can do the same. Adopting a similar policy would serve to create greater consistency between neighboring North County communities that share the same watersheds.

There is also an important connection to California’s SB 54, the Plastic Pollution Prevention

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and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act. Under Public Resources Code section 42057(i), producers of expanded polystyrene foam (EPS) food service ware may not sell, offer for sale, distribute, or import these products in California unless the producer demonstrates that the required statewide recycling rate has been met. The required 25% recycling rate requirement beginning January 1, 2025⁴ was not met and statewide distribution restrictions for producers of EPS food service ware are in effect.4 Yet on Sunday, I saw foam food ware for sale at the Smart & Final location in Vista. Seeing these products still offered for sale in Vista raises important SB 54 compliance questions and highlights the need for local action to ensure that prohibited or environmentally harmful foam products are not available in our city.

Other unnecessary foam products sold at retail stores are also problematic. Foam coolers are particularly concerning because they are often taken to parks or beaches, where they can easily be damaged and break apart into thousands of small pieces. Practical alternatives are available, including reusable and compostable coolers. It’s important to note that this regulation would not apply to foam coolers and packaging used for medical or other essential purposes.

Vista has already demonstrated that businesses and consumers can adapt to change through the implementation of its foam foodware ban for restaurants and food vendors.

Expanding the existing policy to retail sales is a logical next step. Oceanside’s experience demonstrates that this broader approach is both practical and achievable in a neighboring North County community.

I respectfully ask you to support expanding the ban to retail sales, including foam foodware, coolers, and other unnecessary disposable foam products by directing staff to draft an ordinance.

Thank you for your consideration and for your continued work on behalf of our community.

Sincerely,
Janis Jones
Resources
¹ California State Water Resources Control Board, “Storm Water Program – Trash Implementation Program.” The State Water Board explains that the Trash Amendments apply to municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4), industrial, and construction NPDES permittees and that MS4 permits contain trash-control implementation requirements and compliance milestones. (CalWater Board
( https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/stormwater/trash_implementation . html?trk=public_post_comment-text&utm_source=chatgpt.com))

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² California State Water Resources Control Board, “Statewide Water Quality Control Plans for Trash.” The State Water Board explains that rainstorms wash trash into gutters and storm drains that eventually lead to streams, creeks, rivers, and the ocean. The Trash Amendments establish a narrative water-quality objective for trash, a prohibition on the discharge of trash, implementation requirements for permitted stormwater and other discharges, and a compliance schedule. (CalWater Board
( https://waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/trash_control/documentation.html ? utm_source=chatgpt.com))
³ City of Oceanside, “Marine Debris Reduction Ordinance.” Oceanside City Council adopted the ordinance on August 23, 2023. The prohibition on distributing polystyrene foam products by retail establishments and food service providers took effect July 1, 2024. The City’s materials identify covered products including food service ware, coolers, ice chests, pool and beach toys, dock floats, mooring buoys, and certain anchor or navigation markers. (City of Oceanside ( https://www.ci.oceanside.ca.us/government/water- utilities/environmental-services-programs/zero-waste-program/for-commercial- businesses/marine-debris-reduction-ordinance?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) ⁴ California Public Resources Code § 42057(i), enacted through SB 54. The statute requires producers of expanded polystyrene food service ware to demonstrate recycling rates of at least 25% beginning January 1, 2025, with higher requirements in subsequent years. (LegiInfo ( https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml ? article=2.&chapter=3.&division=30.&lawCode=PRC&part=3.&title=&utm_source=chatgpt.co m))

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From:Kevin Lee
To:Public Comments
Cc:Michael Bronner; David Bronner
Subject:D3 – Support Expanding Vista"s Foam Ban
Date:Tuesday, August 11, 2026 11:39:17 AM
Attachments:260811 D3 Expand Vista"s Foam Ban to Retail Dr. Bronner"s.pdf Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this isimportant Dear Mayor Franklin and City Councilmembers,

Please see attached for a letter from Dr. Bronner’s in support of expanding Vista's existing polystyrene foam ordinance to include retail sales of foam foodware and additional foam products, including foam coolers and other unnecessary single-use foam items (Agenda Discussion D3).

Best,
Kevin Lee

Kevin Lee (he/him/his)
Environmental Health & Sustainability Manager
760-743-2211
Why are my pronouns here?
Dr. Bronner's
Family Soapmakers Since 1858
P.O. Box 1958, Vista, CA 92085 | F 760-867-2491
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Dr. Bronner's is a proud member of the Purpose Pledge. See how we put purpose into practice here.

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August 11, 2026
Re: Support for Agenda Item D3 — Expanding Vista’s Foam Ban to Retail Establishments
Dear Mayor Franklin and City Councilmembers,
Thank you for the opportunity to share public comments in support of Agenda Item D3, Expanding Vista’s Foam Ban to Retail Establishments. As a Vista-based business guided by our commitment to “Treat the Earth Like Home,” we support prohibiting the retail sale of polystyrene foam foodware and additional foam products, including foam coolers and other unnecessary single-use foam items.

Dr. Bronner’s is a family-owned, family-run California Benefit Corporation proudly based in Vista since 2009. We employ over 450 employees, many who live in Vista and North County San Diego, and work to model responsible business practices that advance environmental stewardship, waste reduction, and community well-being.

Polystyrene foam is a major contributor to plastic pollution because it is lightweight, breaks apart easily, and is hard to manage once discarded. Even when polystyrene foam may be accepted for recycling, reducing unnecessary foam at the source remains important because it is difficult to recover once it escapes into the environment. When foam enters the environment, it can break down into small pieces that move through streets, parks, storm drains, creeks, lagoons, and eventually the ocean. These small pieces are difficult and costly to clean up and can remain in the environment for decades.

Expanding the ordinance would provide greater consistency across businesses, help reduce litter, protect our environment, and encourage more sustainable alternatives throughout our community. We also appreciate that the City’s current approach to its existing foam ordinance has emphasized outreach and education, which supports a measured, business-conscious path for implementation. This approach can help businesses transition responsibly while still reducing unnecessary foam products before they become litter.

We ask the City Council to support Agenda Item D3, accept the Environmental Commission’s recommendation, and direct staff to move forward with an ordinance prohibiting the retail sale of polystyrene foam foodware and additional foam products, including foam coolers and other unnecessary single-use foam items.

Thank you for your leadership in reducing plastic and foam pollution, protecting public spaces, and advancing a healthier environment for current and future generations.

Sincerely,
David Bronner, Cosmic Engagement Officer
Michael Bronner, President

From:Ali Martin
To:Public Comments
Subject:D3 – Support Expanding Vista"s Foam Ban
Date:Tuesday, August 11, 2026 11:08:51 AM
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this isimportant Dear Mayor Franklin and City Councilmembers,

Polystyrene foam is one of the most persistent forms of plastic pollution. Because it is lightweight and brittle, it easily breaks into small pieces that are carried by wind and stormwater into streets, creeks, lagoons, and the ocean. Once in the environment, foam is extremely difficult and costly to clean up, and it can remain there for decades. Marine animals and seabirds ingest these plastics after mistaking them for food. Because animals are unable to digest these particles, the plastics build up in their digestive systems, eventually starving and poisoning them.

Styrene, the chemical used to make polystyrene along with other plastic products, is considered a potential human carcinogen. Styrene has also been linked to vision and hearing loss, poor memory and concentration, and an impaired nervous system. When polystyrene is used for food packaging, chemicals can leach into food and beverages.

There are safer alternatives and many companies and municipalities have made the switch away from polystyrene packaging. As of June 2024, 11 states and more than 250 U.S. cities and counties have banned or placed restrictions on polystyrene foam.

Expanding the ordinance will not only provide consistency across businesses, it will help reduce litter, protect our environment, and encourage more sustainable alternatives throughout our community.

Thank you for your consideration.

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Ali Martin I Legal Program Manager
(760) 859-7868 I she/her/hers
Li
San Diego Coas
<eeper®I 8305 Vickers Street, Suite 209 I San Diego, CA 92111 Show your support for protecting and restoring fishable, swimmable, and drinkable waters in San Diego County with a donation today.

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From: Ariel Me ha
To: Public Comments
Subject D3, support expanding Vista"s foam ban to retail Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 11:25:55 AM
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Dear Mayor Frank
in and City Councilmembers,
1y
-s is
My name is Ariel Mejia , and I am a senior student at El Camino High School. I spend a lot of time in Vista, and I am writing about item D3, the proposed expansion of Vista's polystyrene foam ban to retail establishments.

Foam breaks apart into microplastics instead of decomposing, and once it reaches a creek or storm drain it is close to impossible to fully remove. The 2024 Surfrider San Diego Marine Debris Report recorded 55,.875 polystyrene foam fragments during local cleanups.

I am asking you to direct staff to move forward with drafting the expanded ordinance, following the Environmental Commission's recommendation and the Oceanside model.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely, Ariel Mejia El Camino High School
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From: Lynne Mitschke
To: Public Comments
Subject: PH3 and D3 regarding plastic
Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 12:12:49 PM
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Hello Mayor and City Councilmembers,
My name is Lynne Mitshke. I am a Vista resident and have participated in many of the City's Climate Action Plan discussions and initiatives, including involvement in the past Vista Climate Action Planners group. My professional work is focused on Energy and CALGreen code compliance and education.

The California Energy and CALGreen codes reflect California's mandate to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, aiming for a cut of 85% by 2030 and achieving net -zero emissions by 2045. The Energy and CALGreen codes are part of California's 12 -part building codes that strive to keep us all safe and healthy as we build and use our buildings.

One overlooked source of greenhouse gas emissions is plastic, 99% of which is derived from fossil fuels. Greenhouse gas emissions are generated throughout the plastic lifecycle from extraction to production and disposal.

Recent research estimates that globally the plastic's life cycle generates more greenhouse gas emissions than the aviation industry, and if the plastics industry were a country, it would rank among the world's largest greenhouse gas emitters.

While plastic has had many positive uses, such as in medical innovation, approximately 50% of plastic production is for unnecessary single use items, including beverage bottles and polystyrene foam products.

I urge you to pass the ban on single -use plastic beverage bottles at City facilities and events and direct staff to draft an expanded polystyrene foam foodware ban to include retail sales.

Taking these actions will demonstrate the City's commitment to sustainability, support the goals of the Climate Action Plan, and set an example for the entire community.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Lynne Mitschke
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From: steohanie morris
To: Public Comments
Subject: Agenda item D3 — Support Expanding Vista's Foam Ban Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 1:17:20 PM
i
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Hello again Mayor Franklin and City Councilmembers!
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s is
I am writing to show my support and urge you to support expanding Vista's existing polystyrene foam ordinance to include retail sales of foam foodware and additional foam products, including foam coolers and other unnecessary single -use foam items.

This type of plastic leaches toxins into bodies and our environment. Foam is extremely difficult and costly to clean up, I'm sure you've noticed how brittle it is and it just gets everywhere as soon as it is crushed or damaged!
Please expand the ordinance and help reduce the harm this material has on our health, streets, creeks, lagoons and the ocean.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Stephanie Morris
San Diego County resident since 1994
Vista resident since 2026 (excited to be part of this wonderful community!) D3

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From: Melissa Morns
To: Public Comments
Subject: AGENDA ITEM D3 Public Comment
Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 10:47:08 AM
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Honorable Mayor Franklin and Councilmembers,
earn wry
Thank you for the opportunity to submit a public comment regarding the proposed AGENDA ITEM D3. The 5 Gyres Institute supports council voting yes on a single -use plastic reduction ordinance that would ban single -use plastic beverage bottles at City facilities and City - sponsored events as well as a directing staff to draft an ordinance expanding Vista's existing foam ban to include retail establishments and additional foam products.

My name is Melissa Morris, and I am the State Advocacy Manager at The 5 Gyres Institute.

Founded in 2010, The 5 Gyres Tnstitute is a nonprofit organization conducting applied microplastics research and advancing science -based policy solutions. Our Microplastic-Free US campaign addresses the growing body of evidence linking plastic pollution, including single -use plastic items, to environmental and human health harms. Over the last four months the Cities of San Clemente and Laguna Beach have adopted Microplastic Prevention Resolutions, signaling a growing movement from local municipalities to reduce harm from microplastics.

In southern California and across the globe, we are confronting pervasive microplastic pollution, with single -use plastic items ranging from utensils to bottles as major contributors.

As single -use plastics break down, they don't disappear, they just become smaller pieces known as microplastics. Microplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than five millimeters, can be thinner than a human hair and invisible to the naked eye. Because of their size, they are nearly impossible to remove once they enter the environment. Today, microplastics are found in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. And microplastics cone from a broad array of products on the market, including bottled water.

With more than 170 trillion plastic particles currently estimated to be floating in our oceans, the solution must begin on land,by reducing unnecessary plastic production and consumption at the source.

Public concern is clear. Action is needed.

Reducing demand for single -use plastics decreases exposure to endocrine -disrupting chemicals commonly found in plastics, including Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates. By limiting plastic use in city operations, the City of Vista will help reduce potential exposure pathways for our community.

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Studies have found that microplastics often carry endocrine -disrupting chemicals that interfere with hormonal development and potentially trigger early puberty, especially in girls,and heighten the risks of obesity, infertility, and hormone -related cancers.

The City of Vista has an opportunity to lead by example.

I respectfully urge you to vote yes on AGENDA I I'EM D3. This policy represents a meaningful and practical step toward reducing plastic pollution locally while contributing to broader environmental solutions.

I respectfully urge you to vote yes.

Thank you for your consideration,
Melissa Moi7is
State Advocacy Manager
The 5 Gyres Institute
Melissa Morris
0 State Advocacy Manager
305-333-9646 (PST) ImelissamcMoyres.org
Donate today to support our mission!
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From: Zua
To: Public Comments
Subject D3, support expanding Vistas foam ban to retail Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 11:14:40 AM
i
Dear Mayor Franklin and City Councilmembers,
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My name is Zua Padilla Rios, and I am an 1 lth grade student at El Camino High School and resident of Vista. I am writing about item D3, the proposed expansion of Vista's polystyrene foam ban to retail establishments.

I am asking you to direct staff to move forward with drafting the expanded ordinance, following the Environmental Commission's recommendation and the Oceanside model.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely, Zua Padilla Rios, El Camino High School
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From: Lois Walau
To: Public Comments
Subject: Agenda Item D3
Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 11:31:08 AM
Some people who received this message don't often get email from imporan-
dear Mayor Franklin and City Councilmembers,
Please support expanding Vista's existing polystyrene foam ordinance to include retail sales of foam food ware and additional foam products, including foam coolers and other unnecessary single -use foam items.

Expanding the ordinance will not only provide consistency across businesses, it will help reduce litter, protect our environment, and encourage more sustainable alternatives throughout our community.

Once this ordinance is adopted, I hope that the City will publicize this important step forward so that we may be seen as a model for sustainability that others will follow.

Learn w
pis
s
Thank you for your leadership and your consideration,
Lois Walag
46 year resident and
20 year volunteer horticulturist for
Alta Vista Botanical Garden
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From: Abbr�
To: Public Comments
Subject: D3 — Support Expanding Vistas Foam Ban
Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 8:31:21 AM
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fly
s
5 Dear Mayor Franklin and City Councilmembers,
Please support expanding Vista's existing polystyrene foam ordinance to include retail sales of foam foodware and additional foam products, including foam coolers and other unnecessary single -use foam items.

Expanding the ordinance will not only provide consistency across businesses, it will help reduce litter, protect our environment, and encourage more sustainable alternatives throughout our community.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Abby Nestor
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From: Susan Burke
To: Public Comments
Subject Agenda Item D3
Date: Monday, August 10, 2026 3:24:09 PM
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s is mho
an
Dear Mayor Franklin and City Councilmembers,
Buena Vista Park is a treasure to Vista. It is incredibly unfortunate that a city like ours is still battling styrofoam pollution in the duck pond and in the creeks. Your support for expanding Vista's existing polystyrene foam ordinance to include retail sales of foam foodware and additional foam products would make a valuable and positive impact on not only BVP, but all of Vista's parks.
f take great pride in introducing people from surrounding cities to BVP because it is so unique. The giant shade trees, massive boulders, changes in elevation, bridges, and walkable paths (or more challenging if one chooses), make this one of my favorite spots in the city. I even point out the mesmerizing kinetic sculpture near the entrance, as it was made in Vista by Vista artists.

Sadly, many of my efforts to show off Vista is marred by the sight of styrofoam trash in the creeks or pond. It is especially troubling to see styrofoam near the turtle nesting spots. Sometimes it is a complete cup or food container, other times it is a scrap that's left a trail of tiny white balls. It is heartbreaking to watch a bird peck at a piece of styrofoam because it thinks it has found food or watch the ducks navigate around a piece of floating styrofoam trash.

In ensuring care for our parks and wildlife, we are ensuring Vista's reputation for having an incredible parks and trails system.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Susan Burke
Orleavo Heights
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From: Barbara Collins
To: Public Comments
Subject: Sierra Club San Diego Supports D3 Foam Ban
Date: Monday, August 10, 2026 3:34:53 PM
Attachments: imacie.pnq
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Pam w
); s
A). SIERRA CLUB
,4„„twor SAN DIEGO CHAPTER
RE: Agenda item D3 — Expand Vista's Polystyrene Foam Ban to Retail Establishments
Dear Mayor Franklin, Deputy Mayor O'Donnell and Councilmembers, On behalf of the Sierra Club San Diego Chapter I am writing to support this ordinance to expand Vista's Polystyrene Foam Ban to retail establishments. The Sierra Club strongly opposes this type of foam as hazardous, non -recyclable, single -use plastics that must be banned or heavily restricted. As with the proposed Plastic Bottle Ban in City Facilities, we urge you to Place People Above Plastics and pass this ban.

Prevention is Far More Effective Than Cleanup
Once this foam breaks apart into thousands of tiny pieces, it becomes extremely difficult and expensive to remove from beaches, waterways, and natural areas where it becomes dangerous to human health and animal welfare.

Oceanside Has Successfully Implemented a Similar Ban
Vista has already successfully implemented a ban on foam foodware use by restaurants. The staff report on this proposal states that this proposal would make Vista's ban similar to Oceanside's foam ban. Oceanside has had minimal implementation issues or resistance from retail establishments.

Oceanside enlisted the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce to provide information and resources to the local business community. City of Vista staff state they have already reached out to the Vista Chamber which surveyed their members about the proposal and have reported no negative feedback .

Reusable and Compostable Alternatives are Readily Available Durable containers, reusable products, and paper or molded -fiber items are widely available and can significantly reduce plastic waste.

Fiscal ImpactThe staff analysis shows no direct fiscal impact by implementing this ban. Removing this significant source of waste and pollution will have a positive indirect fiscal benefitby reducing waste management costs for Vista.

Prioritize People Above PlasticThe negative effects of the massive proliferation of plastic waste are widely knownand understood. They break down into toxic microplastics that enter the food chain,leach harmful chemicals into soil and water, release greenhouse gases duringproduction and incineration and animals are harmed when they mistake them forfood. Yet our landfills and oceans are filled with the waste. We must stop thisdestruction and place People above Plastics now.

Thank you very much for your consideration of our comments.

Sincerely,
Barbara Collins, ChairSierra Club Coasters Conservation CommitteeOceanside Resident

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From: Elizabeth Mosley
To: Public Comments
Subject: D3 — Support Expanding Vistas Foam Ban
Date: Monday, August 10, 2026 5:16:56 PM
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Dear City Councilmembers and Mayor Franklin
As l'm sure you are aware. It takes 500 years!!! For styrofoam to break down and even then you have all these tiny plastic pieces that seagulls and fish and wildlife get hold of and it ends up in our body.

Please support expanding Vista's existing polystyrene foam ordinance to include retail sales of foam foodware and additional foam products, including foam coolers and other unnecessary single -use foam When walking in wild spaces in Vista, as well as when I go to nearby beaches, I see so many foam coolers just left or crumbled. Just the other day l saw a styrofoam plate and a ream of Styrofoam unused cups just left and part of it blew into the street.

Polystyrene foam is one of the most persistent forms of plastic pollution.

Because it is lightweight and brittle, it easily breaks into small pieces that are carried by wind (as I just mentioned that I saw just the other day) and stormwater into streets, creeks, lagoons, and the ocean. Once in the environment, foam is extremely difficult and costly to clean up, and it can remain there for decades.

Expanding the ordinance will not only provide consistency across businesses, it will help reduce litter, protect our environment, and encourage more sustainable alternatives throughout our community.

Thank you so much for your time reading this and for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Elizabeth
Elizabeth Mosley
5-year resident in Vista and 30-year resident in Oceanside

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From:Mark O"Connor
To:Public Comments
Subject:Agenda Item D3
Date:Monday, August 10, 2026 1:57:16 PM
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from . Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] Hello Mayor Franklin and Council Members,
My name is Mark O’Connor and I volunteer with Surfrider San Diego County. I am a lead with the Plastic Pollution Program where we try to reduce the amount of single use plastics everyone uses. One of the most dangerous items in the environment is styrofoam. When styrofoam degrades, it looks like fish eggs to birds, wildlife and marine life. Unfortunately for creatures that confuse styrofoam as a food, they can get sick and parish.

I ask you to pass the ordinance in agenda item D3 to help reduce the amount of styrofoam being discarded and making its way into the environment. Small pieces of styrofoam are one of the most common pieces of debris we pick up in our beach cleanups. Unfortunately it is broken down into such small pieces, we are unable to identify the original shape or source of this pollution. Before you are listed many items that get discarded and end up on streets, go into storm drains and out to the ocean.

Please vote Yes on agenda item D3 and help eliminate this awful pollutant.

Thank you,
Mark O’Connor
Plastic Pollution Program
Surfrider San Diego County

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From: Mary Oster
To: Public Comments
Subject: Public Comment (Oster): EXPANDING VISTA' S FOAM BAN TO RETAIL ESTABLISHMENTS Date: Monday, August 10, 2026 3:19:53 PM
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Dear Mayor Franklin and City Council Members,
My name is Mary Oster -Johnson, and I am a resident of Vista at East Drive.

I am writing to voice my support for Item D3 (EXPANDING VISTA' S FOAM BAN TO RETAIL ESTABLISHMENTS). It is time to let go of harmful disposable materials like styrofoam. Styrofoam damages the environment because it takes up to 500 years to decompose and easily breaks down into toxic microplastics. These tiny fragments pollute waterways, poison wildlife that mistake them for food, and leach harmful chemicals into the soil. Because it is too expensive to recycle, nearly all styrofoam ends up permanently clogging landfills or harming natural ecosystems.

There are many environmentally friendly alternatives to styrofoam for takeout containers that are affordable and easy to obtain for businesses. For example, sugarcane bagasse, naturals bamboo fiber, and recycled paperboard are a few examples. These sustainable materials offer excellent heat and grease resistance while breaking down naturally without leaving toxic residues behind.

Passing this measure will keep Vista cleaner and healthier for both our current residents and future residents, and honors the City's core values of Stewardship, Respect, Teamwork, and Compassion. According to CalRecycle, at least 128 cities and a total of 131 local jurisdictions in California have banned or restricted use of Styrofoam. I respectfully ask that the council vote YES on Item D3. Thank you for your time and your service to our city.

Sincerely,
Mary Oster -Johnson
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From: Jim Rover
To: Public Comments
Subject: D3 — Support Expanding Vista"s Foam Ban
Date: Monday, August 10, 2026 8:40:30 PM
i
Dear Mayor Franklin and City Councilmembers,
Some people who received this message don't often get email from ¢a imporan-
W
S IS
Please support expanding Vista's existing polystyrene foam ordinance to include retail sales of foam foodware and additional foam products, including foam coolers and other unnecessary single -use foam items.

Expanding the ordinance will not only provide consistency across businesses, it will help reduce litter, protect our environment, and encourage more sustainable alternatives throughout our community.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Jim Royer
San Diego, CA 92117
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From:

To:

Subject:

Date:

Tracy M. Shoman
Public Comments
D3 — Support Expanding Vista"s Foam Ban
Monday, August 1O, 21126 2:47:10 PM
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Lea
nw
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Dear Mayor Franklin and Vista City Councilmembers.
am a new resident of Vista and concerned about the use of foam/polystyrene and its effects on people, animals and the environment. Please support expanding Vista's existing polystyrene foam ordinance to include retail sales of foam foodware and additional foam products, including foam coolers and other unnecessary single -use foam items.

Expanding the ordinance will not only provide consistency across businesses, it will help reduce litter, protect our environment, and encourage more sustainable alternatives throughout our community.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Tracy Shoman
Tracy M. Shoman
Certified Life Coach, Meditation Guide & Mindful Mandala Teacher Helping women get centered, clear, and aligned with what matters most.

Website: trar:vs uman.ct�rr.

Contact: 760-349-6639 I TracyMShoman@gmaiLcom
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From:Jamie Simons
To:Public Comments
Subject:Urging the passage of AGENDA ITEM D3
Date:Tuesday, August 11, 2026 9:27:11 AM
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from . Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] Dear Vista council members,
Please act responsibly and support agenda Item D3! Retail establishments should not be using foam containers which pollute our every pristine area of Vista and are unrecyclable.

PLEASE CARE ENOUGH TO SUPPORT THIS BAN!!
In solidarity,
Jamie Simons
Sent from my iPhone

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From: Ann Zivotsky
To: Public Comments
Subject: D3 Support expanding the foam ban
Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 9:53:57 AN
i
Dear City Councilmembers,
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I am a retired teacher who taught former 5th graders about marine debris. As my students learned about the impact on our oceans and wildlife, they became inspired to take action. They wrote powerful essays calling for solutions and created public service announcements to raise awareness about plastic pollution.

Please vote yes on expanding the Styrofoam ban. By supporting this, you'll show our youth that you care about their future, that their voices matter, and that you're willing to take action to protect the environment they will inherit Sincerely,
Ann Zivotsky
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From:Ron Askeland
To:Public Comments
Subject:Agenda item D3 – Please support Expanding Vista"s Foam Ban Date:Saturday, August 8, 2026 4:58:52 PM
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from . Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] Dear Mayor Franklin and City Councilmembers,
Now is the time to act to reduce polystyrene foam pollution.

Once in the environment, foam is extremely difficult and costly to clean up, and it can remain there for decades.

Expanding the ordinance will not only provide consistency across businesses, it will help reduce litter, protect our environment, and encourage more sustainable alternatives throughout our community.

Thank you for your leadership and attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,
Dr. Ronald Askeland

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From:John Bottorff
To:Public Comments
Subject:Comments for Agenda Items D3 & PH3
Date:Sunday, August 9, 2026 6:18:31 PM
Attachments:City of Vista Single-Use Plastic Bottle & Polystyrene Ban Support Letter Aug 2026 FINAL.pdf CleanEarth4Kids.org asks the City Council to adopt the Single-Use Plastic Beverage Bottle Reduction Ordinance (Agenda Item PH 3) and to direct staff to draft an ordinance expanding Vista's existing foam ban to include retail establishments and additional foam products (Agenda Item D3).

Our full comment letter is attached.

Thank you,
John Bottorff
CleanEarth4Kids.org
949-439-5459
[email protected]

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August 9, 2026
RE: Adopt the Single-Use Plastic Beverage Bottle Reduction Ordinance & Expand Polystyrene Ban
Mayor Franklin and Council Members,
CleanEarth4Kids.org asks you to adopt the Single-Use Plastic Beverage Bottle Reduction Ordinance (Agenda Item PH3) and direct staff to draft an ordinance that expands the City of Vista's existing polystyrene ban to include retail establishments and all additional polystyrene products (Agenda Item D3).

Plastics Contain Hazardous Chemicals
The vast majority of plastic bottles are made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET).1 PET is also the primary synthetic fiber used to make polyester.2 One of the catalysts in the production of PET is antimony trioxide, which is not only a possible carcinogen but is also linked to problems in the endocrine system.3 Phthalates are commonly used during the production of PET.4 When plastic products containing PET are subjected to high heat, long storage time, and even UV exposure, the phthalates can leach into the food or beverage, exposing the consumer to a dangerous toxin.5
There are over 16,000 chemicals used in the making of plastics, with at least 4,200 of them (26%) being highly hazardous to human health and the environment, but only 980 of them are regulated around the world.6 All tested plastics leached hazardous chemicals, and each major plastic type, including food packaging, can contain over 400 chemicals of concern.7 Additionally, there is little to no hazard information available for over 10,000 of these chemicals.8
Chemicals commonly found in plastics like PFAS and phthalates can impair reproduction, growth, and cognition.9 The most vulnerable population is children, and plastic is linked with obesity, hyperactivity, ADHD, low IQ, and asthma.10 Unborn children are especially vulnerable to toxins in plastics, which can “increase 10 https://www.naturalsuperkids.com/health-effects-plastic-exposure-children 9 https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/12/201215131242.htm 8 https://plastchem-project.org/
7 https://plastchem-project.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/PlastChem-Press-Release_English-v1.pdf 6 https://www.cnn.com/2024/03/14/health/toxic-unregulated-chemicals-report-wellness?cid=ios app 5 https://www.millionmarker.com/blog/single-use-plastic-and-your-health-can-pet-plastic-cause-harm 4 https://www.millionmarker.com/blog/single-use-plastic-and-your-health-can-pet-plastic-cause-harm 3 https://madesafe.org/blogs/viewpoint/chemical-profile-polyethylene-terephthalate-pete 2 https://petresin.org/an-introduction-to-pet/
1 https://petresin.org/an-introduction-to-pet/
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risks of prematurity, stillbirth, birth defects of the reproductive organs, neurodevelopmental impairment, impaired lung growth, and childhood cancer.”11 PFAS are Toxic
PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a class of over 21,000 synthetic (man-made) chemicals found in many products like plastic bags, artificial grass/synthetic turf, food packaging, waterproofing sprays, household cleaners, stain-resistant carpet, nonstick cookware, firefighting foam, clothing, makeup, toilet paper, personal care products, textiles, children’s products, and much more.12,13 PFAS as a class share many characteristics and toxicities.14 PFAS are toxic. According to the CDC,15 EPA,16 and the European Union Environment Agency, PFAS are linked to low birth weight, thyroid disease, increased cholesterol, liver damage, kidney cancer, and testicular cancer.17 They are also linked to liver cancer,18 diabetes,19 endocrine disruption, and other serious health problems.20 PFAS are known as "forever chemicals" as they are extremely strong and don't break down in the environment or in our bodies. Once in the body, they accumulate in the kidneys and liver with a biological half-life of 3-8 years.21 It has been evident since the 1960s that PFAS are dangerous to human health.22 Exposure to PFAS can pose significant health risks to humans, such as increased cholesterol levels, increased risk of thyroid disease, lower bone density, and kidney and testicular cancers.23
PFAS are found in the blood of 97% of Americans and even in umbilical cords.24,25 PFAS bioaccumulate in our bodies, making the risk of cancers and other health problems much more likely as we get older.26
PFAS significantly reduces fertility in women.27 Exposure to PFAS during pregnancy has been linked to an increase in preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, fetal growth 27 https://www.mountsinai.org/about/newsroom/2023/exposure-to-chemicals-found-in-everyday-products 26 https://www.mdpi.com/2305-6304/10/2/44
25 https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/forever-chemicals-found-umbilical-cord-blood-samples 24 https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/health-effects/us-population.html 23 https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/environmental-health-protection/private-water/fact-sheets/pfas 22 https://www.ewg.org/research/decades-polluters-knew-pfas-chemicals-were-dangerous-hid-risks-public 21 https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/pfc/index.cfm 20 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32476019
19 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35970987/
18 https://www.insider.com/study-confirms-link-between-forever-chemicals-and-liver-cancer-risk-2022-8 17 https://www.eea.europa.eu/publications/emerging-chemical-risks-in-europe 16 https://www.epa.gov/pfas/our-current-understanding-human-health-and-environmental-risks-pfas 15 https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/health-effects/index.html 14 https://experts.unthsc.edu/en/publications/response-to-comment-on-scientific-basis-for-managing-pfas 13 https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/PFAS_FactSheet.html 12 https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/chemical-lists/pfasmaster 11 https://www.genevaenvironmentnetwork.org/resources/updates/plastics-and-health/ 2 ADD TO PACKET
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restriction, and childhood obesity.28 Prenatal exposure to perfluorononanoic acid (a type of PFAS) is associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer in children.29 Children are more vulnerable to the toxic effects of PFAS due to their smaller size and still-developing immune and nervous systems, and becoming exposed can greatly impact their physical and neurological health.30 Early PFAS exposure in children has been linked to ADHD, increased risk of cancer, immune system damage, and reproductive harm.31
Dangers of Phthalates
Phthalates are typically added to most plastics to make them pliable, so plastic bags are highly likely to contain phthalates.32,33 Men with higher phthalate levels have higher levels of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.34 In midlife and postmenopausal women, phthalates can lead to fast body fat gain, a higher BMI, and increased waist circumference.35 Phthalates can also cause increased rates of hot flashes.36 Phthalates are linked to birth defects, infertility, miscarriages, as well as other neurological issues during child development and can harm the endocrine system.37,38 Phthalates are endocrine disruptors that impact the delicate balance of hormones in our bodies.39
Women exposed to phthalates while pregnant are at greater risk and are more likely to have a preterm birth.40 Human studies have determined that in-utero phthalate exposure can cause later development of type II diabetes and insulin resistance, obesity, asthma, higher systolic blood pressure, and reproductive problems in women, including earlier menopause, low birth weight, pregnancy loss, and preterm birth.41 Other human studies have linked phthalates to impaired motor skills in children as well as delayed language development.42 In male adults, a reduction in sperm quality and quantity has also been observed.43
Plastic Harms the Environment and Our Health
Each stage of the plastic lifestyle harms the environment, as the vast majority of 43 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0304389417304570?via%3Dihub 42 http://health.harvard.edu/blog/something-else-to-avoid-in-pregnancy-phthalates-2019031516224 41 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8157593/#B32-healthcare-09-00603 40 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196(23)00270-X/fulltext 39 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7559247/# 38 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8157593/ 37 https://birthdefects.org/phthalates/
36 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935121001857 35 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935123001482 34 https://www.diabetes.co.uk/news/2017/jul/everyday-plastic-chemicals-linked-to-type-2-diabetes 33 https://www.npr.org/2009/04/01/102556613/whats-in-my-plastic-a-closer-look-at-phthalates . 32 https://www.nytimes.com/article/plastics-to-avoid.html 31 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6380927/ 30 https://www.epa.gov/pfas/our-current-understanding-human-health-and-environmental-risks-pfas 29 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33387879/
28 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32812200/
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plastics are made of fossil fuels, and the extraction and refining of fossil fuels damage our environment.44
For example, “Cancer Alley” is an 85-mile piece of land in Louisiana where nearly 150 oil refineries, plastics plants, and chemical facilities, including the world’s largest manufacturer of polystyrene (Styrofoam), spew toxic chemicals into the air, land, and water. Cancer Alley has the highest risk of cancer in the nation, 50x the national average, along with 27% low birth and 25% preterm birth rates.

The use of plastic continues environmental injustice because low-income communities suffer the worst environmental consequences of plastic production.45 Studies clearly show plastic production is disproportionately situated in “low- and mid-income countries or in poor and minority communities within high-income countries.”46
Plastics have a major carbon footprint, emitting about 3.4% of our total global greenhouse gas emissions.47 After use, less than 9% of plastics are recycled, with the rest littered, dumped in landfills, or burned.48
Around 70% of the pollution in the ocean is from plastic, with an estimated 12.7 million tons of plastic dumped into our oceans every year.49 Burning plastic releases greenhouse gases and toxic air pollutants like furans, mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).50 Even after burning, 30% of plastic remains as ash, which is typically buried, poisoning our soil, or blown into the air.51
The making and burning of plastic products in 2019 had about the same emissions as 189 coal power plants, releasing 850 million metric tons of greenhouse gases.52 Microplastics and Nanoplastics (MNPs)
Plastics do not decompose53 like plants; they just break into smaller and smaller pieces, leading to MNPs that can be eaten, drunk, or breathed in54 by animals or humans and are even absorbed by plants.55
Plastic first breaks down into microplastics, smaller than 5mm, and then 55 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165993622003727 54 https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/mar/24/microplastics-found-in-human-blood-for-first-time 53 https://www.scienceabc.com/nature/how-do-we-know-plastic-will-take-so-long-to-decompose.html 52 https://www.ciel.org/plasticandclimate/
51 https://environmentaldefence.ca/2022/03/18/burning-plastic-is-a-terrible-idea 50 https://breathelife2030.org/news/burning-plastic-waste-adds-global-air-pollution-problem 49 https://kids.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/frym.2021.574637 48 https://www.consumerreports.org/environment-sustainability/the-big-problem-with-plastic/ 47 https://www.oecd.org/plastics/increased-plastic-leakage-and-greenhouse-gas-emissions.htm 46 https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2022/04/02/plastic-pollution-health-poverty/ 45 https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/stories/true-cost-plastic-pollution 44 https://www.nature.com/articles/s41578-022-00419-y
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nanoplastics, which are less than 100 nm.56 By comparison, a sheet of paper is about 100,000 nm thick.

MNPs have been found in human blood, the placenta, and the feces of infants and adults.57 The ability to cross through human digestion is especially concerning, as preliminary studies have discovered links between ingested plastic and inflammatory bowel disease.58
Ingesting MNPs can change the gut microbiome, which is linked to metabolic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and chronic liver disease.59 MNPs have been found deep in human lungs, with polypropylene, used in plastic packaging, and PET, used in bottles, the most common found.60 Research shows it is likely MNPs can cross the blood-brain barrier, causing inflammation in the brain itself.61 MNPs in the human brain could damage brain cells, and dementia-like symptoms have been seen in mice exposed to microplastics.62,63 These microscopic MNPs can increase our chance of stroke and heart attacks, as nearly 60% of clogged arteries in a recent study were found to contain plastic.64 Plastics In Drinking Water And Food
Each person consumes an estimated 5 grams of plastic, the equivalent of a credit card, every week.65
Plastics have been found in 83% of tap water and 93% of bottled water sampled.66,67 The food chain has also been affected by microplastics, with microplastic contamination found in fish, shellfish, and crustaceans, canned fish, sugar, salt, honey, beer, fruits and vegetables, milk, rice, meat, and other common food products.68,69
Plastics Harm Wildlife and Marine Ecosystems
Many wildlife accidentally eat plastic after mistaking it for food, which not only can cause them to choke or starve, but can poison them as plastics contain toxic 69 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0025326X22008827 68 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969722069340 67 https://www.bonappetit.com/story/microplastics-food 66 https://beachapedia.org/Plastic_Pollution_Facts_and_Figures 65 https://wwf.panda.org/Revealed-plastic-ingestion-by-people-could-be-equating-to-a-credit-card-a-week 64 https://www.sciencealert.com/plastic-found-inside-more-than-50-of-plaques-from-clogged-arteries 63 https://futurism.com/neoscope/scientists-microplastics-cause-dementia-mice 62 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935117310770?via%3Dihub 61 https://www.sciencealert.com/microplastics-could-trigger-inflammation-in-human-brain-cells 60 https://www.theguardian.com/environment/microplastics-found-deep-in-lungs-of-living-people-for-first-time 59 https://www.euronews.com/green/2022/04/11/how-much-plastic-do-you-eat-it-could 58 https://www.theguardian.com/microplastics-may-be-linked-to-inflammatory-bowel-disease-study-finds 57 https://www.theguardian.com/environment/microplastics-found-in-human-blood-for-first-time 56 https://www.iaea.org/research-on-the-possible-effects-of-micro-and-nano-plastics-on-marine-animals 5 ADD TO PACKET
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chemicals.70,71
Plastic pollution harms “all sea turtle species, half of marine mammal species, and one-fifth of seabird species.”72
In the past decade, the amount of plastic dumped in our oceans has increased and reached up to 350 million tons of plastic.73
Microplastics and nanoplastics can harm entire marine ecosystems, with 15–51 trillion microplastic particles floating in the ocean.74 Microplastics can enter marine animals as they “breathe,” allowing them to accumulate in organisms. These plastics also hurt corals, which are essential for fisheries and are crucial for the health of marine ecosystems, providing “habitat, feeding, spawning, and nursery grounds for over one million aquatic species, including commercially harvested fish species.”75 Additionally, over 800 marine species are directly harmed by plastic, leading to “starvation, malnutrition, intestinal blockage, and intake of toxins.”76 Plastics are Fossil Fuels
As the world transitions from fossil fuels to renewable energy, the fossil fuel industry is focused on plastics and petrochemicals,77 as stated by both ExxonMobile78 and BP to continue their profits at the expense of our climate and health.79 This focus on plastics and petrochemicals is the reason for the push for fracking in the US, as ethane is separated from methane (natural gas) and then “cracked” to make ethylene, the building block for most plastics.80 This process produces a massive amount of pollution and greenhouse gases.81
It is estimated that the plastic industry could be 19% of the total global carbon budget by 2040 if we do not take action.82 We must remove plastic from our daily lives and stop the fossil fuel industry from destroying our planet for money.83 Polystyrene: Styrene & Polystyrene Are Toxic
Polystyrene (styrofoam) is a polymer made from styrene.84 Polystyrene leaches styrene 84 https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemical-engineering/polystyrene 83 https://www.motherjones.com/environment/2020/03/your-plastic-addiction-is-bankrolling-big-oil/ 82 https://stories.undp.org/what-do-plastics-have-to-do-with-climate-change 81 https://insideclimatenews.org/plastics-hub-appalachian-fracking-ethane-cracker-climate-change-health/ 80 https://www.climaterealityproject.org/blog/ethane-cracker-plants-what-are-they 79 https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/bp-pledges-to-go-carbon-neutral-how-remains-an-open-question/ 78 https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/Energy-and-environment/Outlook-for-Energy-A-perspective-to-2040 77 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S259033222300252X 76 https://www.nrdc.org/sites/default/files/choked-plastic-pollution-marine-life-fs.pdf 75 https://www.epa.gov/coral-reefs/basic-information-about-coral-reefs 74 https://kids.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/frym.2021.574637 73 https://plasticseurope.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/2018-Plastics-the-facts.pdf 72 https://www.nrdc.org/sites/default/files/choked-plastic-pollution-marine-life-fs.pdf 71 https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/plastic-pollution 70 https://www.plasticsoupfoundation.org/en/plastic-problem/plastic-affect-animals/animals-eat-plastic/ 6 ADD TO PACKET
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and benzene into water and the environment.85 Styrene is linked to genetic white blood cell damage and high cancer risk.86 Styrene and benzene are listed as carcinogens under California’s Proposition 65.87,88
Chronic exposure to styrene has been linked to severe health effects such as depression, headaches, fatigue, weakness, hearing loss, disrupted kidney function, and white blood cell damage that can lead to various cancers.89,90 Styrene causes endocrine disruption, reproductive organ toxicity, and skin, eye, and lung irritation, and it can cause chromosomal damage, which can cause cancer in humans.91 It can also increase the risk of leukemia, lymphoma, and cancer mortality.92 Polystyrene is a fossil fuel product derived from oil and natural gas. The extraction and use of fossil fuels to create polystyrene directly impacts climate change through increased greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Replacing polystyrene with more sustainable alternatives not derived from fossil fuels will lead to a reduction in GHG emissions. As polystyrene is a fossil fuel product and fossil fuels are the single largest global contributor to GHG emissions, this is critical to mention.

Polystyrene Is Toxic To Marine Mammals, Wildlife and Harms Our Environment Polystyrene is toxic to marine animals, the environment, and wildlife.93 It disintegrates, creating thousands of microplastics that enter our storm drains, rivers, and oceans, where they can be eaten by marine life and wildlife, which can be fatal.94,95
Toxic chemicals leaching from polystyrene into water are a direct threat to marine life.96 The potential threats wildlife face due to polystyrene exposure include damage to the stomach, kidneys, liver, and other organ systems.97 Polystyrene has a direct path towards marine ecosystems through fisheries, water sports, and other human activities.98 It is common for buoys, fish boxes, and marina platforms to contribute to this issue, as these structures can be easily damaged or destroyed by storms, exposure to wave erosion, or even gusts of wind.99 99 https://phys.org/news/2019-12-big-problem-ocean-polystyrene-pollution.html 98 https://phys.org/news/2019-12-big-problem-ocean-polystyrene-pollution.html 97 https://environmentamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Polystyrene-Factsheet-w-Sources.pdf 96 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0045653522008669 95 https://ohvec.org/the-truth-about-polystyrene/
94 https://www.fauna-flora.org/app/uploads/2020/07/FFI_2020_Breaking-Down-Ocean-Polystyrene_Scoping- 93 https://medium.com/why-styrofoam-expanded-polystyrene-should-be-banned-everywhere-in-the-world 92 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8070875/
91 https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/OHB/HESIS/CDPH 90 https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/ntp/roc/content/profiles/styrene.pdf 89 https://cehn.org/our-work/eco-healthy-child-care/ehcc-faqs/faqs-styrofoam/ 88 https://www.p65warnings.ca.gov/fact-sheets/benzene
87 https://www.p65warnings.ca.gov/fact-sheets/styrene
86 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165940/ 85 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24383702/
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Exposure to polystyrene can result in oxidative damage within the cell's lipids.100 These serious implications include, but are not limited to, cell death and inhibition of growth and morphology.101 Impacts of polystyrene exposure have been shown to increase oxidative stress and decrease survival rates within marine life.102 Additionally, exposure and consumption of polystyrene can impact the future of marine life. Consumption can lead to infertility and alter development.103 Although these effects may seem minor, they can impact a whole food chain, starting with base organisms.104
Adopt the Single-Use Plastic Beverage Bottle Reduction Ordinance & Expand Polystyrene Ban
CleanEarth4Kids.org asks you to take action to reduce plastic and polystyrene pollution in Vista.

Our children's health and future depend on the actions we take today!

Sincerely,

Suzanne Hume
Educational Director & Founder
[email protected]
CleanEarth4Kids.org
104 https://phys.org/news/2019-12-big-problem-ocean-polystyrene-pollution.html 103 https://phys.org/news/2019-12-big-problem-ocean-polystyrene-pollution.html 102 https://www.sciencedirect.com/S235218642300069X
101 https://www.sciencedirect.com/S235218642300069X
100 https://www.sciencedirect.com/S235218642300069X
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August 10, 2026
Delivered via email to [email protected]
Vista City Council
200 Civic Center Dr #100
Vista, CA 92084
Re: Agenda Item D3
Dear Mayor Franklin and City Council Members,
The Surfrider Foundation is a grassroots nonprofit environmental organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s ocean, waves, and beaches, for all people, through a powerful activist network. Surfrider Foundation San Diego County strongly supports expanding the City of Vista’s existing polystyrene foam (Styrofoam™) ordinance for restaurants to include retail sales and encourages the City Council to direct staff to develop an ordinance based on the Environmental Commission’s recommendations.

Single-use expanded polystyrene foam (EPS) is a persistent form of plastic pollution because it is lightweight, easily fragmented, and difficult to recover once it enters the environment. Its brittle nature allows it to escape waste systems, break into smaller fragments, and spread throughout communities, waterways, and coastal areas.¹
In addition, EPS foam is extremely difficult to recover and has limited recycling options, making prevention and reduction the most effective strategies for addressing this form of pollution.

Volunteers have witnessed the impacts of foam pollution firsthand through coastal cleanup efforts throughout San Diego County. The 2025 Marine Debris Report, produced by Surfrider Foundation San Diego County and San Diego Coastkeeper, documented nearly 50,000 EPS foam fragments collected during cleanup efforts, making foam the third most common debris category identified.² Reducing unnecessary polystyrene foam use not only helps protect the environment but also addresses emerging concerns associated with plastic pollution. As plastics break down, they contribute to microplastic contamination, and researchers continue to study the potential impacts of microplastic and nanoplastic exposure on human health.³ Polystyrene products also contain chemical compounds, including styrene, which the National Toxicology Program lists as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen” based on available evidence from human and animal studies.⁴ Reducing 3900 Cleveland Ave., Ste B, San Diego, CA 92103 I Phone: (619) 837-8221 | [email protected] | surfridersd.org

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unnecessary use of polystyrene products is a common sense next step to limit avoidable pollution and potential chemical exposure while protecting our environment.

The City’s existing polystyrene foam ordinance for restaurants was an important first step. Expanding the ordinance to include retail sales of foam foodware is a common sense next step. Addressing additional sources of foam, including foam coolers, egg cartons, packaging materials, and other products will further reduce foam waste and pollution.

We respectfully urge the Council to expand the polystyrene foam ban to include retail sales and take meaningful action to protect our ocean, waves, beaches, and communities.

Thank you for your leadership and continued commitment to protecting our coastal environment.

Sincerely,
Joana Guerra
Chapter Manager
Surfrider Foundation | San Diego County Chapter
Vicki Conlon
Executive Board Vice Chair
Surfrider Foundation | San Diego County Chapter
References

1. Beyond Plastics. “Polystyrene.”
https://www.beyondplastics.org/fact-sheets/polystyrene?utm_source=chatgpt.com

2. Surfrider Foundation San Diego County and San Diego Coastkeeper. 2025 Marine Debris Report.
https://sandiego.surfrider.org/hubfs/San%20Diego/BCU/2025%20MARINE%20DEBRIS%20RE PORT%20-%20ENGLISH.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com

3. National Library of Medicine. Potential toxicity of polystyrene microplastic particles. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7193629/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

4. National Toxicology Program. 15th Report on Carcinogens: Styrene. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK590797/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

3900 Cleveland Ave., Ste B, San Diego, CA 92103 I Phone: (619) 837-8221 | [email protected] | surfridersd.org

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From:Jennifer Jacobs
To:Public Comments
Subject:D3 – Support Expanding Vista"s Foam Ban
Date:Sunday, August 9, 2026 7:49:03 PM
Dear Mayor Franklin and City Councilmembers,
As a wildlife biologist who has spent years working in Southern California’s natural areas, I’ve seen firsthand how litter can impact the environment our wildlife depends on. Polystyrene foam is especially problematic because it easily breaks apart and can be carried by wind and stormwater into our creeks, lagoons, and ocean. Over time, it breaks down into smaller fragments and microplastics rather than biodegrading. Wildlife can ingest these particles, and they can also enter the food chain, raising concerns for both wildlife and human health.

Preventing these products from becoming litter in the first place is far more effective than trying to clean them up afterward. Expanding Vista’s ordinance would be a simple, practical step toward reducing pollution and protecting our local waterways and wildlife.

Please support expanding Vista’s polystyrene foam ordinance. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Jacobs

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From:Wendy Schramm
To:Public Comments
Subject:D3 – Support Expanding Vista"s Foam Ban
Date:Saturday, August 8, 2026 5:02:30 PM
Dear Mayor Franklin and City Council Members,
The only adjective I can apply to polystyrene foam is insidious. This is not a product that needs to be used as there are so many more environmentally-friendly products that can take its place.

I have lived in Vista for nearly half a century. I have watched the city grow and have felt proud of how it has progressed. I am equally proud of the steps that the city has already taken and will continue to take to protect our home on a microlevel (Vista) and a macro one (our beautiful but beleaguered planet).

Severely restricting or prohibiting altogether the use of polystyrene products is a bit of a no- brainer on multiple fronts: Almost certainly carcinogenic to humans, polystyrene definitely poses great risks to marine animals. Brittle and as light as a feather, Styrofoam breaks up easily but never actually breaks down. One only has to take a stroll on the beach to see broken shards of polystyrene foam on the sand, blowing in the wind, and floating on the surface of the ocean. It takes little imagination to understand that these forever bits of toxic flotsam and jetsam can easily find their way from Vista storm drains and (with devastating effects) into the stomachs of unknowing sea creatures. But we humans ARE knowing. We know the negative effects of polystyrene products, on both a biological level and an aesthetic one.

Vista could set such a fine example by putting that understanding to work in practical and far- reaching ways and expanding the ban on polystyrene foam in our fair city.

Thank you for your working on and showing leadership regarding this issue.

Respectfully,
Wendy Schramm

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Vista Chamber of Commerce
Member Survey Results — Proposed Expansion of the Polystyrene Ordinance TO: Cassidy McCarthy, Climate Action Plan Program Administrator, City of Vista CC: Aaron Schulze, City of Vista
FROM: Rachel Beld, Chief Executive Officer, Vista Chamber of Commerce DATE: August 4, 2026
RE: Survey findings provided for the August 11 Council item Status of this document
The Vista Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has not reviewed these results and the Chamber has not taken a position on the proposed ordinance. This document reports what responding members said. It should not be characterized as a Chamber endorsement, objection, or recommendation. Should the Board adopt a position, the Chamber will communicate it separately.

At the City’s request, the Chamber surveyed its membership in July 2026 regarding the proposed expansion of the City’s polystyrene ordinance to retail establishments and to non-foodware products. Twenty members responded between July 23 and July 28.

Respondents were self-selected and the sample is small, so these results are directional and are not statistically representative of Vista’s business community. They are offered as member input for the Council’s consideration alongside the City’s other sources.

Results at a glance
Survey measure Responses
Total respondents 20
Report selling, using, or distributing polystyrene 7
Report no polystyrene use 13
Of the seven affected, number reporting no impact 0
Support the proposed expansion (2 strongly) 7
Oppose the proposed expansion (6 strongly) 10
Neutral or requesting more information 3

1. Reported exposure is limited, but consistent among those affected Seven of twenty respondents indicated they sell, use, or distribute polystyrene products. None of those seven selected “no impact.” Five anticipated a moderate impact, one minor, and one was unsure. Of the thirteen respondents reporting no polystyrene use, ten anticipated no impact.

2. The products identified are predominantly shipping and packing materials Among affected respondents, shipping or packing materials were cited six times, food containers or cups three times, foam coolers once, and other foam products twice. The affected respondents include a commercial printer, a distribution and warehouse operation, a disaster-restoration contractor, a medical business, a senior living facility, and a youth swim program. This distribution falls largely outside the food-service categories addressed by the current ordinance and by SB 54.

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3. Availability of substitutes was cited more often than cost – Difficulty sourcing alternatives was the most frequently selected anticipated impact, at eight responses. – Increased operating costs followed at seven, with increased product costs for customers at six. – Competitive disadvantage with neighboring cities and inventory that could no longer be sold were each selected four times; administrative or compliance burden, three.

Two respondents described specific operational constraints rather than general cost concerns. A distributor reported using foam coolers inside shipping cartons to hold temperature on sensitive products and was not aware of a substitute that would perform the same function. A restoration contractor identified foam packing materials used to pack out residential and commercial contents following fire and water damage.

4. Cost estimates are too sparse to support a citywide projection Five respondents provided a dollar estimate of annual financial impact, ranging from under $500 to more than $10,000. Six selected “unsure” and the remainder did not answer. The Chamber does not consider this a sufficient basis for estimating aggregate cost to Vista businesses and cautions against extrapolating from this range. The Chamber can collect more detailed figures from affected members if the City finds that useful.

5. Requested lead time divides along lines of exposure
Nine respondents indicated a compliance timeline. Five stated they would need more than twelve months and four stated less than three months. The respondents requesting longer lead time were generally those reporting higher anticipated costs; those requesting under three months were generally those reporting minor or no impact.

Eleven respondents selected “not applicable.”

6. Stated opposition is not concentrated among affected businesses Ten respondents opposed the proposal and seven supported it. Of the six “strongly oppose” responses, four came from respondents who reported no polystyrene use in their own operations; their written comments cited general regulatory burden, cumulative cost pressure on small business, and consumer choice. Among the seven respondents reporting direct polystyrene use, two strongly opposed, three somewhat opposed, one somewhat supported, and one was neutral pending more information, and their comments more often described specific operational or sourcing problems than objections to the policy itself. The Chamber notes this distinction so that the aggregate support-and-oppose count is not read as a measure of business impact.

7. Several respondents asked for basic information about the proposal Written comments included direct questions about what the ordinance is intended to achieve and what benefits are expected, and whether the requirements already apply under state law adopted in 2025. Four respondents selected competitive disadvantage relative to neighboring cities. Respondents also volunteered incentives, consumer education, and a phased approach as alternatives they would like considered. The Chamber offers this as an indication of where City outreach may be most useful, and takes no position on the merits of those alternatives.

Data limitations
– Twenty self-selected responses from a membership of Chamber businesses and nonprofits are directional only. Self-selection likely favors respondents with stronger views in either direction. – Two responses are internally inconsistent. One respondent answered “no” to using polystyrene but then selected shipping materials and food containers; another answered “yes” but selected “none of the above.” The number of affected respondents is therefore best treated as approximately six to eight rather than exactly seven.
– Nine respondents did not provide a cost estimate, and eleven selected “not applicable” for compliance timing.

Attribution and follow-up
Thirteen of the twenty respondents consented to being contacted by the Chamber or to having their comments shared with City leaders, including five of the seven who reported polystyrene use. Seven respondents declined; their input is reflected in the aggregate figures and described generically in this summary, but is not attributed and their identities are not being shared. Four respondents submitted comments without providing a name.

The Chamber can facilitate direct contact with consenting members who indicated a material operational impact, should the City wish to understand specific use cases in more detail before or after the August 11 meeting.

Prepared by the Vista Chamber of Commerce, August 4, 2026. Questions may be directed to Rachel Beld, [email protected].

D3. Expanding Vista’s Foam Ban to Retail
Establishments
August 11, 2026

D3. Expanding Vista’s Foam Ban to Retail Establishments Background:
•Environmental Commission researched, discussed and recommended that City Council enact an ordinance to prohibit the retail sales of Polystyrene (foam) food service ware, coolers/ice chests*, shipping/packing materials, pool/beach toys*, dock floats/buoys*, and egg cartons in the City of Vista

D3. Expanding Vista’s Foam Ban to Retail Establishments Commission Research:
•Polystyrene recycling has a low market value and tends to be contaminated, making it non-recyclable
•Polystyrene can release chemicals that are harmful to human health over time
•Polystyrene is primarily made from fossil fuels
•Polystyrene is lightweight, fragments into small pieces, doesn’t biodegrade, is not easy to clean up, and can easily be carried by the wind or water to end up in our creeks, roadways, and parks

D3. Expanding Vista’s Foam Ban to Retail Establishments Commission Research:
•Creek Walk Park Photos

D3. Expanding Vista’s Foam Ban to Retail Establishments Commission Research:
•Buena Vista Creek Trail Photos

D3. Expanding Vista’s Foam Ban to Retail Establishments Current Ordinance:
•Ban’s Food Service Providers from providing their customers with foam food service ware with prepared food
•Waiver for business that gross under $1 million a year •Since 2023, 29 businesses have been reported as out of compliance •No business has received a citation
•All complaints handled with education & outreach & a compliance plan

D3. Expanding Vista’s Foam Ban to Retail Establishments Oceanside’s Ban:
•Vista’s Environmental Commission based their recommendation on Oceanside’s ordinance
•Has exceptions for items that are prepared outside of the city, medical packaging, and packaging that originates from outside the city •Oceanside worked with their Chamber and Downtown organization to roll out their ordinance
•Retail portion of their ordinance encountered minimal resistance •Other Cities with similar bans:
•Encinitas, Carlsbad & San Marcos

D3. Expanding Vista’s Foam Ban to Retail Establishments SB 54:
•Restricts Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) food service ware producers from selling, distributing, or importing foam food service ware in CA •Puts the responsibility on the producers and not the retailers •Does not regulate other foam products like packaging materials, egg cartons, ice chests or pool equipment
•Does not prohibit retailers from obtaining any foam product from sources outside of CA

D3. Expanding Vista’s Foam Ban to Retail Establishments Effect on Current Operations:
•Approximately 100 retail businesses that would be affected •Based on current ban experience and state regulations no significant concerns identified for implementation
•Worked with the Chamber of Commerce for additional business engagement and feedback
•Survey sent out with basic information on the idea of a foam ban expansion
•20 respondents, 7 support, 10 opposed, 3 neutral

Questions?

Vista City CouncilAugust 11, 2026

Vista City Council
August 11, 2026