Supervisor Kathryn Barger leads the motion for LA County’s support of new federal legislation to enhance and protect natural spaces.
In a move aimed at protecting and expanding natural habitats, Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger introduced a motion during the June 27 Board of Supervisors meeting, which aligned the County’s support with proposed legislation by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla and Congresswoman Judy Chu, seeking to extend the boundary of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument by over 100,000 acres.
This strategic move comes hot on the heels of a compelling press conference held yesterday at Eaton Canyon Natural Area, with the San Gabriel Mountains, located in Barger’s District, as a backdrop. The event was a rallying point for over 100 community members and supporters advocating for the preservation of nature.
Supervisor Kathryn Barger emphasized the importance of access to natural spaces for all residents of Los Angeles County.
“Every Los Angeles County resident in every neighborhood deserves safe and accessible nature, parks, and open space,” she said. “Connecting with nature benefits our mental health and overall well-being. As local leaders, we must do everything possible to ensure our communities and visitors alike have equitable access to explore nature. It’s a stabilizing space that makes a big difference in many people’s lives.”
In a direct response to this appeal, the motion instructs the County’s Chief Executive Officer and the County’s Legislative Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations Branch to pen a letter of support. This communication will strongly advocate for the passage of H.R. 3681, the legislation that aims to bring about this crucial expansion and protection of natural spaces.
