VLCT advocated for passage of the Vermont Environmental Justice Law in 2022 to “identify, reduce, and eliminate environmental health disparities to improve the health and well-being of all Vermont residents.” Included in the bill was the creation of the Environmental Justice Council, an 11-member board charged with advising state agencies and the legislature on environmental justice issues as they made and implemented laws, rules and other actions. The board includes a “representative of municipal government” to be appointed by the Senate Committee on Committees. The current municipal representative, Burlington City Councilor Zoraya Hightower, will be leaving the role, creating an opportunity for a new volunteer to participate in this important work. While VLCT does not have a formal role in appointing a representative, we encourage candidates who serve in some municipal role (an elected, appointed, or employed position) to submit their name for consideration.
To apply, send an email with a letter of interest (including a short summary of your qualifications and background) to Ashley Moore in the Vermont Senate President Pro Tem’s office at amoore@leg.state.vt.us as soon as possible.
For more information about the Vermont Environmental Justice Advisory Council, visit Environmental Justice Advisory Council | Agency of Natural Resources.