Work continues on the streets of Fillmore after a major sewer line collapse on Thursday, March 16, 2023. The line failure originated in west Fillmore, near El Paseo Street (above) and Village Square at C Street. Ventura County Environmental Health Division was notified, and a major repair undertaking began. Manholes are inspected every three years, but recent heavy rains may have contributed to the issue. On Tuesday, March 21, the City of Fillmore held a special meeting to address a declaration of local emergency resulting from the sewer line collapse. City Manager David Rowlands introduced the item, and Municipal Services Director/Utilities Engineer Troy Spayd provided a presentation and update to the City Council at that time stating repairs could take weeks or months. An emergency declaration allows the city to avoid bid procedures that could take months, according to Spayd. It could also make possible state and federal funding. Photo credit Angel Esquivel-AE News.