DEPARTMENT: Health
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Vincent R. Nathan, PhD, MPH
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: Citywide
SUBJECT:
Proposed Changes to City Code Chapter 26, "Pollution Control", Article II, "Air Pollution"
SUMMARY:
The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District (Metro Health) is recommending changes to Chapter 26, "Pollution Control", Article II, pertaining to the regulation of air pollution which will (1) update the references to state law; (2) require that businesses that are sources of air pollution register with Metro Health; (3) changing the inspection and license fees to a registration fee of $200.00 per year for each facility located within the City; and (4) provide for criminal penalties and publication.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The San Antonio Air Quality Ordinance, Chapter 26 "Pollution Control", Article II, "Air Pollution," was last updated on September 16, 1982. As the code is currently written, it is not enforceable. Updating the language would bring San Antonio's Ordinance up to date with current State law and make Chapter 26 a code that is more comprehensive in its definition of air pollution emitters.
The registration process will provide critical information for the City that can be used in determining strategies to lower ozone levels and other air pollutants, including but not limited to, particulate matter, lead, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, and oxides of nitrogen. These air pollutants may have adverse health effects especially for at risk populations. This strategy is a result of Metro Health's work as a member of the City Council Air Quality Working Group. In addition, through participation on various Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG) committees, Metro Health has worked with businesses and industries on strategies to reduce ozone pollution.
ISSUE:
The current Air Pollution ordinance was last substantively amended in 1982. This Ordinance will update the language of Chapter 26, "Pollut...
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