The HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT committee plays a vital role in monitoring and addressing the social determinants of health within the community. This includes overseeing the construction of hospitals and other healthcare facilities, as well as ensuring that HRA-funded agencies and other healthcare providers are meeting the needs of vulnerable populations. The committee works closely with City and State health agencies to address issues such as access to healthcare, food insecurity, and housing insecurity, which can have a significant impact on health outcomes.

In addition, the committee assesses social needs and problems relating to all adult groups, including the impact of poverty, unemployment, and social isolation on health. The committee makes appropriate recommendations to address these issues and improve overall health and well-being within the community.

Furthermore, the committee is responsible for monitoring the policies of the Department of Environmental Protection, with a particular focus on the North River Sewage Treatment Plant. This includes assessing the potential impact of environmental factors on health outcomes, such as air and water quality, and working to ensure that policies and practices are in place to mitigate any negative effects on the community’s health.

Also, the committee will work collaboratively with other CB9 committees and task forces to address unique challenges (i.e., legal cannabis distribution) and help ensure that the public health and environmental impacts are properly managed and mitigated in our community.