During a recent government meeting, local business owners and community members expressed significant concerns regarding proposed climate initiatives that could impact industrial operations in Berkeley. The discussions highlighted the urgency of addressing climate change, with speakers emphasizing the need for immediate action as temperatures have risen by 1.6 degrees Celsius over the past year, according to the European Copernicus system.

Kelly Hammergren, a community member, urged the council to support both proposed measures on the ballot, stressing the dire consequences of inaction on climate issues. However, the sentiment shifted as business owners voiced their apprehensions about the feasibility of the proposed measures. Emily Winston, owner of Boy Chick Bagels, criticized the modified version of the ballot measure, arguing that a gradual approach would not suffice and could drive industrial businesses out of the city. She highlighted the challenges her factory faces in transitioning from natural gas, noting a recent $5 million investment in the city that could be jeopardized.

Beth Rosner from the Berkeley Chamber of Commerce echoed these concerns, advocating for more extensive stakeholder engagement before rushing legislation of such magnitude onto the 2024 ballot. She emphasized the importance of involving impacted businesses and community members in the decision-making process.

Barry Braden, another local business owner, shared his experience of already relocating jobs out of Berkeley due to financial pressures, stating that the proposed measures could result in further job losses and significant payroll reductions for the city. He estimated that compliance with the new measures could cost his business an additional $90,000 annually, prompting fears of further job relocations.

The meeting underscored a critical tension between the urgency of climate action and the economic realities faced by local businesses, raising questions about the balance between environmental goals and industrial viability in Berkeley.