West Cook News

Cook County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is inviting residents to participate in its 2024 environmental justice survey. The survey aims to assist in the development of a countywide environmental justice policy, which will guide programming and policy decisions across the Offices Under the President once adopted.

“Establishing an environmental justice policy is a priority for my administration and it will serve as an instrument for fairness, helping us build vibrant, sustainable and inclusive communities," said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. "The County's dedication to environmental justice work is an example of how we can and will lead with policy that puts compassion and equity first."

Residents and workers in Cook County are encouraged to share their concerns about environmental impacts on the community by participating in the survey. Responses must be submitted by midnight on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. The confidential survey can be accessed at: https://cookgov.me/EnvironmentalJustice

Historically, communities of color and low-income communities have faced disproportionate environmental burdens. Addressing these inequities and preparing for challenges from climate change are key components of the County’s strategic plan.

“As an environmental engineer, I know that problem solving can be complicated. Input and engagement from our community are vital to informing the work of DES and the Cook County Board. Residents know best how to improve their community and how the government can better serve them. That’s why I’m excited that DES is launching this environmental justice survey,” said Cook County Commissioner Bridget Degnen, Chair of the Environment and Sustainability committee. “The environmental justice survey is another step we are taking to hear directly from residents. Through these responses, we can make better, more informed policies to address their needs while fighting for environmental justice in spaces that need it most.”

Cook County is collaborating with an Environmental Justice Community Advisory Committee to co-develop this policy with support from the Center for Neighborhood Technology. The committee comprises community leaders and advocates from diverse backgrounds including Delia Barajas (Voces Fieles Comunitarias Contra la Opresión), Oliver Ciciora (Southsiders Organized for Unity and Liberation), Aliaa Eldabli (Radiant Vessels Community Services), Jerri Garl (Environmental Justice Evanston), Jersey-Shabazz Hosier (Access Living), Fredia Lindsey (resident of Robbins), Theresa Reyes McNamara (Southwest Environmental Alliance), Daisy Rosa (resident of Rolling Meadows), Gina Roxas (Trickster Cultural Center), Myrna Salgado (Chicago Environmental Justice Network), Apostle Carl White Jr. (Southland Ministerial Health Network) and Michelle Yates (South Suburbs for Greenspace).

"Listening to residents is a crucial step in developing Cook County's first Environmental Justice Policy," said Cook County Commissioner Josina Morita, Vice-Chair of the Environment and Sustainability committee.

The creation of this policy was requested in several county initiatives including the Cook County COVID-19 Response Plan, Equity Fund Taskforce recommendations, and Board Resolution 23-1092. A public draft of the policy is expected in early 2025 followed by town hall meetings for comments and a second survey later that year.