Cook County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is seeking input from the public on the county’s draft environmental justice policy.
The draft has been developed by an environmental justice internal working group made up of county employees and the Environmental Justice Community Advisory Committee.
Once adopted by the county, the environmental justice policy will help inform and guide programming and policy decision-making across county bureaus and departments.
“Residents in low to middle income communities across Cook County, particularly communities of color, have been disproportionately impacted by pollution and lack of investment in green infrastructure. This has impacted their quality of life, their health and even life expectancy,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.
“Creating an environmental justice policy with critical feedback from our residents will allow us to integrate this policy into programs and initiatives ensuring that we are effectively addressing past environmental injustices and working to prevent further injustices.”
Those who live or work in Cook County are encouraged to review the draft policy and share their thoughts.
A public input form will be available on the DES website until midnight, Feb. 7. The county is hosting a series of in-person and virtual town hall events this month. The following town halls have been scheduled:
Tuesday, January 21 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Niles North High School
9800 N. Lawler Ave.
Skokie, IL 60077
Wednesday, January 22 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Cicero Public Library
5225 W. Cermak Road
Cicero, IL 60804
Monday, January 27 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.
South Suburban College
15800 State St.
South Holland, IL 60473
Wednesday, January 29 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Via Zoom. Click here to register.
Monday, February 3 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Malcolm X College
1900 W. Jackson Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60612
To register for a town hall, please click here.