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As the season shifts, our resolve to improve air quality in the Duwamish Valley remains steadfast. This fall, the DRCC's Clean Air Program has continued to advocate for meaningful change, despite the challenges we face. One of our focal points has been the proposed King County Council Ordinance 2023-0053, which, while still in committee, carries the potential for significant environmental and community advancement. Though the ordinance is currently stalled, its proposals align closely with our community's aspirations, advocating for the addition of community seats from Beacon Hill and South Park to the King County International Airport Roundtable and suggesting the creation of an advisory subcommittee. This body would play a crucial role in shaping a community benefits agreement, seeking to mitigate the impact of airport activities on the neighboring areas, including Georgetown, South Park, Tukwila, Rainier Beach, Allentown, and South Beacon Hill. The DRCC has actively supported this ordinance, providing testimony at the King County Growth Management and Administrative Committee (GAO) meeting in mid-September, endorsing the King County International Airport Community Coalition's (KCIACC) support letter, and engaging with council members directly. While we encounter opposition from various sectors, our commitment to representing the community’s interests in clean air initiatives remains unwavering. In alignment with our goals, the DRCC has also participated in a host of other activities. We joined the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) advisory board's first in-person meeting since the pandemic, gaining insight into emission reduction efforts at a local gas station and the broader DV air monitoring initiative. A walking tour with Department of Health and regional public health officials highlighted the pressing air quality challenges we face, emphasizing the need for collaborative action. Internally, the DRCC organized an all-partner meeting for our Clean Air Program, aiming to synchronize our efforts and amplify the impact through strategic partnership and data alignment. Our outreach extended to Washington D.C., where we contributed to the national dialogue on pollution and policy at the We Act national convening. In the local sphere, our participation in discussions on airport master planning, environmental justice, and zero-emission initiatives has been crucial. Notably, our engagement in crafting the Cumulative Risk Burden from Pollution Bill (CURB) stands as testament to our proactive legislative approach. Looking ahead, we are excited to share that we will be part of an upcoming webinar with the U.S. Forest Service on November 8th to discuss the "moss method" and its benefits for urban green spaces. Additionally, we anticipate contributing valuable insights at the Annual King County International Airport Equity and Social Justice (ESJ) Townhall on November 15th. While the journey towards cleaner air is complex, our dedication is unwavering. We thank you for your continued support and look forward to making more strides together.
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