The Draft Environmental Justice Element has been released and will be heading to the County Planning Commission for a public hearing, 9 a.m. Aug. 27 in the Board of Supervisors Hearing Room at Joseph Centeno Betteravia Government Administration Building, 511 E. Lakeside Pkwy., Santa Maria.
The Environmental Justice Element supports disadvantaged communities to have access to a healthy environment, equitable access to decision-making processes, and protection from environmental and health hazards.
Community members can review the Draft Environmental Justice Element and provide comments to the Planning Commission in advance of, or during the hearing.
The Environmental Justice (EJ) Element is a new state-mandated general plan element that focuses on addressing the needs of EJ Communities (EJCs).
California law defines Environmental Justice as “the fair treatment of people of all races, cultures, and incomes with respect to the development, adoption, implementation and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies” [Government Code Section 65040.12(e)].
The EJCs in Santa Barbara County include Casmalia, Cuyama, New Cuyama, Ventucopa, Garey, Sisquoc, Los Alamos, and Isla Vista.
The EJ team completed engagement in each of these eight EJCs in partnership with the Santa Barbara County Promotores Network. Engagement included administration of a survey, co-facilitation of public meetings, and direct engagement at community events.
The proposed EJ Element includes policies, objectives and actions designed to address the EJ-related needs of EJCs.
In accordance with state law, the proposed EJ Element is designed to:
• Reduce unique or compounded health risks in EJCs by means that include the reduction of pollution exposure and improvement of air quality;
• Promote access to public facilities, healthy foods, safe and sanitary homes, and physical activity;
• Promote civic engagement in the public decision-making process; and,
• Prioritize improvements and programs that address the needs of EJCs.
For more information including the Draft EJ Element, visit https:/ www.countyofsb.org/794/Environmental-Justice-Element or contact the project manager, Zoë Carlson at carlsonz@countyofsb.org or 805-568-3532.
For more about public participation for the Planning Commission hearing visit https://www.countyofsb.org/1625/County-Planning-Commission or the posted agenda.