West Cook News

Cook County's Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is inviting public input on its draft environmental justice policy. The draft, developed by an internal working group and the EJ Community Advisory Committee, aims to guide programming and policy decisions across county departments once adopted.

"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," stated 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."

The public is encouraged to review the draft policy and provide feedback via a form available on the DES website until February 7, 2025. A series of town hall meetings are scheduled for both in-person and virtual participation:

- January 21 at Niles North High School in Skokie

- January 22 at Cicero Public Library

- January 27 at South Suburban College in South Holland

- January 29 via Zoom

- February 3 at Malcolm X College in Chicago

To register for these events or learn more about the policy, visit the Cook County website.

Historically, communities of color and low-income areas have faced greater environmental challenges. Addressing these inequities is part of Cook County's strategic plan as outlined in several county documents including the COVID-19 Response Plan and Board Resolution 23-1092.