Lightfoot to back ordinance to cut air pollution

Noting health problems plaguing low-income Black and Latino neighborhoods, city officials said Saturday that Mayor Lori Lightfoot will push a zoning reform ordinance aimed at reducing air pollution in residential areas surrounded by heavy industry.

The political promise was immediately met with skepticism from Southeast Side residents protesting the planned move of industrial metal shredder General Iron to their community. If Lightfoot is serious about protecting neighbors, start by blocking General Iron from moving to East Side, residents said during a virtual town hall related to the company’s move.

“I have seen firsthand the environmental impact pollution has had on our community members,” said Jocelyn Rangel, a registered nurse and lifelong resident of the area. Pollution has taken a toll on residents who suffer from asthma and other health problems, she said.

The Southeast Side already houses a number of heavy industrial operations and cannot tolerate more, speakers at the town hall said.

Read more: https://chicago.suntimes.com/2020/7/25/21337118/lightfoot-general-iron-chicago-ordinance-air-pollution