State and local leaders come together in environmental summit

The organizers of the 8th Annual Health Leadership Summit said it’s for the community and for the most disadvantaged.

Comite Civico del Valle Director Jose Luis Olmedo said, “We want to make sure that everybody has a fair opportunity and that’s why we create these conferences to level the playing field, especially for those who live in the most vulnerable, most disadvantaged situations. And we want them to participate. This is for them. It’s for our community.”

He said the free event brings state and local leaders together – to work on health and environmental issues affecting the area.

“We’ll discuss issues about the Salton Sea, air quality, and health. These are issues of importance. In particular with the Salton Sea drying up and water getting exported,” Olmedo said.

To be held at the twin dragons restaurant in Heber this week.

“We have speakers from health, for example. They’ll be talking about asthma, both from the local perspective, as well from the state’s perspective,” Olmedo said.

He said decision-making affecting the area must include the community.

“We need to make sure that we are informing the broader community to be a part of decisions, and what our future looks like in order to live a healthier, a better life that takes advantage of our natural resources for our local needs and as well for the future of our local environment,” Olmedo said.

He encourages people to register so they may have a seat and a voice in the event.

“This is a venue for the community. We want everybody to participate. All stakeholders,” Olmedo said.
For more information on the summit or to register, please www.ejsummit.com.