Cook County Extends Public Input Period for Draft of Environmental Justice Policy

New deadline to submit feedback is February 28

Cook County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is extending the deadline for public input for the County’s draft environmental justice (EJ) policy. This draft has been co-developed by an EJ internal working group made up of County employees and the EJ Community Advisory Committee. Once adopted by the County, the environmental justice policy will help inform and guide programming and policy decision-making across County bureaus and departments. 

The County held four in-person and two virtual town halls. Because of the interest the community has shown in this process, DES has extended the input period until Friday, February 28 at 11:59 p.m. CST.

Those who live or work in Cook County are encouraged to review the draft EJ policy and share their thoughts. A public input form is available on the DES website

To learn more, review the policy and share your input, please visit:

https://www.cookcountyil.gov/service/environmental-justice

Historically, communities of color and low-income communities have experienced disproportionate environmental burdens. Responding to the compounding effects of environmental inequities and preparing for additional challenges resulting from climate change are crucial aspects of the County’s strategic plan. 

The creation of an environmental justice policy was requested in the Cook County COVID-19 Response Plan, the Cook County Equity Fund Taskforce recommendations and in Cook County Board Resolution 23-1092.

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