Barbara Shustek stated that Lainey is developing an equity framework and is looking to get data on how the CAP teams can provide information and educate local community members.
Dasmine McFarlin stated that there is no equity framework and that it is crucial to implement this in La Mesa. She stated that the subcommittee is looking at data from the community. For example, there is talk about giving out free trees, but what happens if you live in an apartment? Dasmine McFarlin ended by stating that it was a great brainstorming session.
Lainey Bloom stated that outreach is essential and having different forms can reach a broad audience. Lainey Bloom also said she wants to dive deeper into how the City programs can be more equitable. The next steps are getting this implemented either on a high level or looking into a more specific framework.
Amanda-Dawn Natalia states that making sure we are asking the right questions and meeting the needs of everyone in the community is impactful and that this subcommittee is doing great work.
Brianna Coston states that the renter-focused outreach portion that was discussed would be a great way to connect with community members.
Barbara Shustek stated that renters of multi-family housing complexes would appreciate including programs like a tree giveaway. She noted that a free tree program is an excellent example of how disadvantaged renters do not get access to it.
Dasmine McFarlin gave an example of the DIY tool kit and said it is hard to get the information out to the community because some people might not have internet access.
Ricky Williams asked if this would be internal or if anyone could be involved. Hilary Ego responded both.
Christina Potter stated that it could be effective to reach other people through tabling at grocery stores. It can cast a wider net.
Ricky Williams stated that almost 40% of people who live in La Mesa are renters and that climate action plans primarily focus on homeowners.
Brianna Coston states that housing stock in La Mesa is very old but still in high demand, prompting owners not to make upgrades on old, inefficient items.
Barbara Shustek suggested creating a mindset change. For example, some homeowners do not like trees. So, building that shift can be beneficial for implementing the CAP. Barbara Shustek also gave the example of Hilcrest, and the change in street diets has made people complain. Through more education and outreach, people might change their behavior and see these upgrades through a different lens.
Ricky Williams stated that environmentally disadvantaged communities, such as students, youth, and transit-reliant people, are additional important people to reach out to.
Amanda-Dawn Natalia discussed the hardships of reaching renters but stated that mailing outreach materials directly to them can be an option.
Hilary Ego stated that the CAP team sent letters to owners and renters for the Cal-fire grant.
Michael Bourton stated that putting flyers at the trolley stop could reach a broad audience if permission was granted to post on an information board.
Mary Nooristani stated that putting something up on billboards could be a good way to reach people.
Michael Bourton states that reaching out to supermarkets and putting up information about La Mesa could be helpful.