County staff are working on a plan to phase out HERC, but community isn't being included in the process. Hennepin County commissioners need to take decisive action in directing County staff to arrive at a shutdown date that is acceptable for those most affected by the incinerator.

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General Phone Call Template

(Introduction)

Hello my name is____. I'm a community member/Hennepin County resident/constituent living in_____, and I am reaching out to you today to talk about an important environmental justice issue: the HERC trash burner in downtown Minneapolis

(Message)

I believe it is important that everybody is able to live in a healthy environment, free from the burden of pollution. I know that in order to fight against climate change & secure a future that is sustainable and equitable for all Minnesotans, we must take bold action that centers our most affected neighbors in decision making.

There is a plan being developed by County staff right now to identify a shut down date for HERC with no plans for how the community will be engaged in the process. I am concerned that the proposed timeline will not be acceptable for those most affected by HERC’s air pollution. I am calling you today to ask that you work to center community members in this decision-making process by directing staff to ensure community stakeholders have input and power when determining the shut-date of HERC.

HERC is a dangerous, toxic site that has negatively impacted the health of community members, specifically Black/brown and low-income residents, for decades. It is concerning to me that this facility has existed for 34 years and there is still not a clear plan for shutting it down despite claims from the County that they are committed to Zero Waste. There needs to be tangible steps for the County to phase-out this hazardous burner.

Will you commit to publicly supporting an urgent shut-down date for HERC and centering the community in the planning process for determining that date?

(Wrap Up)

Thanks for your time today. And thank you for your work on behalf of Hennepin County. We hope that you will support our fight! Goodbye