I have long been a proponent of allowing residents the opportunity to express their concerns about issues of major importance in a public forum.

For years, residents in my community have talked with me about the Newby Island Landfill. Residents in the landfill’s immediate vicinity have felt they have been left out of the decision-making process.

Addressing this issue was one of my top priorities when I was elected to the Assembly last year. That is why I authored Assembly Bill 385, which will allow residents who live around the Newby Island Landfill to have the opportunity to voice their concerns regarding its undertakings. The bill will create a community advisory committee (made up of representatives from the neighboring cities and the agency that oversees the landfill in addition to two members of the public) that will hold various forums open to public comment.

The landfill has long posed significant problems for residents living in Milpitas, Fremont, and beyond, stating that the odor often prevents them from going outside and forces them to remain indoors with windows and doors closed. Over the years, countless individuals have expressed to me that they fear their health has suffered and are concerned for the future health of their children. While this bill does not stop the expansion of the site, it will create a much-needed public space for residents to have their voices heard.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this bill or if you have an idea or proposal for a new law, please do not hesitate to contact my Milpitas office at (408) 262-2501 or my Sacramento office at (916) 319-2025.

Thank you and I hope you and your family had a wonderful Fourth of July.

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Assemblymember Kansen Chu, D-San Jose, represents the 25th Assembly District in the California State Legislature. The 25th Assembly District includes the cities of San Jose, Santa Clara, Fremont, Newark and Milpitas. This column will be a monthly feature in the Berryessa Sun.