LAKEPORT
Work on economic development strategic plan is continuing
The next LEDAC (Lakeport Economic Development Advisory Committee) meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021, 7:30 to 9 a.m. via Zoom. Meetings are open to the public.
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84794666151?pwd=Und0eUdFS0o4MGNmaUJSUkxPeDhnZz09 Meeting ID: 847 9466 6151 Passcode: 619840
Work on the next economic development strategic plan is continuing, with the focus on Goal No. 3, “Strive to enhance the historic downtown and lakefront areas.” City Manager Kevin Ingram will present the Logic Model approach to this element.
Three positions on LEDAC expire at the end of December; the City is accepting applications for appointments to be effective Jan. 1, 2022, for a two-year term. The application form may be found on the City’s website and will be accepted until November 22: https://www.cityoflakeport.com/commissions%20and%20committees/2019%20Application%20(Web)%20-%20Check%20Box%20Fillable.pdf. For additional information, please contact Hilary Britton, Deputy City Clerk, at 263-5615, Ext. 102, or by email at hbritton@cityoflakeport.com.
Members and the public are encouraged to provide information about organization and agency activities and special events. We look forward to your participation in the meeting.
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WASHINTON D.C.
Garamendi introduces the ‘End Palm Oil Deforestation Act’
“My legislation supports President Biden’s commitment to end global deforestation by ensuring that all palm oil imported into the United States is grown in a lawful, sustainable, ethical, and responsible manner. Greenhouse gas emissions from global deforestation are driven in no small part by the growing market for palm oil as a food ingredient and an advanced biofuel. The United States must stand against human rights abuses and destructive cultivation practices that set us back in our efforts to combat climate change. That’s exactly what my ‘End Palm Oil Deforestation Act’ does,” said Congressman Garamendi.
Earlier this week, President Biden, along with more than 100 other world leaders, signed a pledge at the United Nations climate change conference—known as COP26—to eliminate deforestation worldwide. “Preserving forests and other ecosystems can and should play an important role in meeting our ambitious climate goals,” said President Biden, in his remarks at the COP26 summit.
The cultivation of palm oil, a common food ingredient, is recognized as a leading cause of tropical deforestation globally. In addition to causing increased greenhouse gas emissions, irresponsible palm oil cultivation on deforested lands is often accompanied by forced labor, child labor, wildlife trafficking, and the displacement of indigenous communities.
Congressman Garamendi’s bill would help to meet President Biden’s commitments in the COP26 pledge by requiring under federal law, for the first time, that importers demonstrate palm oil was cultivated and harvested sustainably, ethically, and lawfully in its country of origin. The bill would also require that all palm oil products, whether as a food ingredient, cosmetics, or biofuel, be labeled with their country of origin, allowing American consumers to make informed decisions.
Palm oil is also increasingly used as a feedstock for advanced biofuels, including in so-called “sustainable aviation fuel.” Garamendi’s bill would end a longstanding loophole that allows imported palm oil to qualify for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), which Congress intended to promote domestic biofuel production.
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CLEARLAKE
Habitat for Humanity Lake County dedicates 38th home
On October 2, the Cimina-Jeffers family became the 38th family to be welcomed into their new home as part of Habitat for Humanity’s Homeownership Program. Staff, volunteers and family gathered to celebrate with Heidi, Dave and their children. The home was made possible by the generous donation of their lot to Habitat for Humanity Lake County by Sharon Bianchi.
As part of the dedication festivities, Grocery Outlet Clearlake donated household supplies, groceries, and a gift certificate to help the family transform their new house in Lower Lake into a home.
“Everyone has worked so hard to make this happen; there were times we thought it wouldn’t work out but Habitat’s perseverance and encouragement helped make this real. We’ve struggled for so long. Now we have a home, our children have room to grow, we’re not crowded…it’s an unbelievable relief,” said Heidi.
“They deserve this,” added Dave, referring to his family. “We’re so grateful to Habitat for this opportunity. We’re appreciative of everything everyone has done. And we thank Grocery Outlet for the generosity too. It’s a big help.”
If you or someone you know is interested in Habitat’s First Time Homebuyer program, please contact the office at 707-994-1100 or come by at 15312 Lakeshore Drive, Clearlake, for more information.
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—Compiled by Ariel Carmona Jr.
