Community leaders demand urgent action on air quality crisis
October 23, 2024 | Allegheny County, Pennsylvania
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During a recent government meeting, community leaders and environmental advocates urged local officials to approve an increase in air quality permit fees, emphasizing the urgent need for improved air quality management in Allegheny County. The discussions highlighted the detrimental health impacts of air pollution, particularly in vulnerable communities.
A former city council member expressed frustration over the cessation of a supplementary funding program that previously supported local initiatives. They called for a reallocation of funds to prioritize the needs of communities most affected by air pollution, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and support from government officials.
Patrick Campbell, executive director of the Group Against Smog and Pollution, advocated for the approval of the Allegheny County Health Department's (ACHD) updated fee schedule. He noted that the fee increase is essential for maintaining adequate funding and staffing to enforce air quality regulations, particularly the Clean Air Act. Campbell pointed out a significant budget shortfall of $1.8 million, stressing that a failure to approve the fees would undermine public health efforts.
Lisa Graves Marcucci, representing the Environmental Integrity Project, echoed these sentiments, arguing that companies should bear the costs associated with their permit applications. She warned that without sufficient funding, the ACHD risks issuing non-compliant permits, which could jeopardize the county's air quality program.
Natisha Washington, a councilwoman and environmental justice advocate, highlighted alarming statistics regarding premature deaths linked to air pollution in the Mon Valley. She reported that local communities are experiencing high rates of cancer and respiratory issues, urging officials to act decisively to improve air quality. Washington emphasized that the proposed fee increases would not burden taxpayers, as they would be funded through permit fees and EPA resources.
The meeting underscored a collective call to action from community members and health advocates, who are pressing for immediate measures to address air pollution and protect public health in Allegheny County.
A former city council member expressed frustration over the cessation of a supplementary funding program that previously supported local initiatives. They called for a reallocation of funds to prioritize the needs of communities most affected by air pollution, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and support from government officials.
Patrick Campbell, executive director of the Group Against Smog and Pollution, advocated for the approval of the Allegheny County Health Department's (ACHD) updated fee schedule. He noted that the fee increase is essential for maintaining adequate funding and staffing to enforce air quality regulations, particularly the Clean Air Act. Campbell pointed out a significant budget shortfall of $1.8 million, stressing that a failure to approve the fees would undermine public health efforts.
Lisa Graves Marcucci, representing the Environmental Integrity Project, echoed these sentiments, arguing that companies should bear the costs associated with their permit applications. She warned that without sufficient funding, the ACHD risks issuing non-compliant permits, which could jeopardize the county's air quality program.
Natisha Washington, a councilwoman and environmental justice advocate, highlighted alarming statistics regarding premature deaths linked to air pollution in the Mon Valley. She reported that local communities are experiencing high rates of cancer and respiratory issues, urging officials to act decisively to improve air quality. Washington emphasized that the proposed fee increases would not burden taxpayers, as they would be funded through permit fees and EPA resources.
The meeting underscored a collective call to action from community members and health advocates, who are pressing for immediate measures to address air pollution and protect public health in Allegheny County.
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