In a pivotal discussion during the Regular City Council Meeting on May 1, 2024, the City of Soledad took significant steps towards enhancing environmental justice in future developments. Council members emphasized the importance of integrating health-conscious planning into housing and retail projects, particularly in light of rising diabetes rates linked to fast food availability in the community.

One council member passionately articulated the need for a comprehensive approach to development, stating, "We really have to make sure that as leadership, when we have housing developments, when we have retail, we are really looking through it as environmental justice." This sentiment reflects a growing awareness of how urban planning decisions impact public health and community well-being.

The council also discussed the importance of including vulnerable populations, such as seniors and individuals with disabilities, in the planning process. A member who participated in the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) highlighted the necessity of addressing these groups, ensuring their needs are not overlooked in future city developments.

The meeting concluded with the unanimous approval of Resolution 6,071, which accepts the vision and guiding principles for the 2024 General Plan Update. This resolution is seen as a foundational step towards embedding equity and environmental stewardship into the city’s planning framework. The council plans to revisit the equity guiding principles in the next meeting, signaling a commitment to ongoing community engagement and improvement.

As Soledad looks ahead to the next 20 years, the discussions from this meeting underscore a proactive approach to urban development that prioritizes health, inclusivity, and environmental justice.