The air quality watch dogs here at GASP want to express our sincere gratitude to Allegheny County Health Department Director Dr. lulia Vann for swiftly fulfilling her promise to increase accessibility to Board of Health meetings.
During the Wednesday board meeting, Dr. Vann announced two significant changes:
Virtual Public Comment: She told the board that moving forward, residents will be able to participate in meetings and present public comments virtually. When you click on the online form to address the Board of Health now, you may choose whether you want to do so in person or via Zoom. This is a crucial step toward ensuring all voices are heard, regardless of location or personal circumstances.
Exploring New Meeting Locations and Times: Recognizing the challenges of attending meetings downtown during weekdays, Dr. Vann announced that ACHD is actively exploring alternative locations and meeting times for 2025. This proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to making participation more convenient and inclusive for all residents.
These changes are exactly the type of common-sense actions GASP has been advocating for years. Increased accessibility and transparency are essential for a truly effective and accountable public health department.
“We applaud Dr. Vann's leadership and her continued commitment to engaging with the community,” GASP Executive Director Patrick Campbell said. “We truly look forward to continued collaboration with ACHD to improve public health outcomes for Allegheny County and ensure that all residents have a seat at the decision-making table.”