Southeast Queens residents voiced their growing concerns over waste transfer stations situated in close proximity to residential areas which they say are impacting public health, air quality and their overall well-being during a community town hall at P.S./I.S. 116 in Jamaica on June 26.
Councilwoman Nantasha Williams collaborated with the Brinkerhoff Action Association to host the community conversation focused on environmental justice to address critical issues surrounding waste transfer stations and other pressing environmental matters affecting the community.
“I believe that environmental justice is not just a concept, but a collective responsibility that requires active participation from all members of the community. It is truly inspiring to witness the strong turnout and engagement at this town hall, and we are hopeful that together, we can make a lasting impact on the well-being of our community and create a brighter, more equitable future,” Williams said.
The event, attended by residents, local organizations and government officials, provided a platform for open dialogue, informed discussions and concrete steps to address these challenges.
“For far too long our communities have been targeted for any environmentally hazardous or unpleasant activities that other areas did not want,” said Bill Scarborough, president of the Addisleigh Park Civic Association. “The environmental quality in southeast Queens must be respected both by those within and those outside of our community.”
Another resident, Oster Bryan, president of the St. Albans Civic Improvement Association, said he “is pleased there is a collective and concerted effort, in our Black community especially, to tune in.”
One of the key highlights of the town hall was an in-depth analysis of the air quality issues plaguing the community. Expert speakers shared valuable insights into the sources of pollution, the associated health risks and the importance of implementing comprehensive monitoring and mitigation measures. The discussion sparked a call to action for stronger regulations, improved enforcement, and increased community engagement to ensure a healthier and safer environment for all residents.
“The right of a community to clean air, water and fresh food is a conversation worth having. May this be the beginning of many more such conversations, always working toward elimination of environmental injustices in overburdened communities,” said said Andrea Scarborough, of the Addisleigh Park Civic Organization.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, community leaders and government representatives vowed to take immediate steps toward addressing these environmental justice matters. A commitment was made to establish a task force comprising local stakeholders, including community members, environmental experts and government officials.
As a result of a lawsuit and subsequent settlement, significant changes and improvements are anticipated for the waste transfer facilities in the community. NY Lawyers for Public Interest (NYLPI) attended the community conversation with the primary objective of informing the community about the details of the settlement agreement and the forthcoming actions that will be taken. This engagement aims to ensure transparency and keep the community informed about the progress and developments in waste management.
Representatives of The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA), a state agency responsible for promoting clean energy innovation, energy efficiency, and sustainable development, were also in attendance at the event. As a leading authority on energy and environmental issues, NYSERDA spearheads initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, foster renewable energy adoption and create a resilient and equitable energy system for New York state.
