Environment

By Patrick "Kit" Bobko

Kit Bobko has a strong record of using common sense and practical solutions to preserve the environment we all enjoy in the South Bay.

Mr. Bobko was the Chairman of a community committee that implemented a common-sense water-filtration system using gravity and sand to naturally collect and filter storm water before it pollutes the beaches and Santa Monica bay. The system uses 30 sidewalk drains along the street that filter trash and pollutants from the water, and the sand beneath the street works like a sponge and natural filtration system. The rainwater is funneled through a series of pipes that re-direct the water to irrigate landscaping along the street. No rainwater returns to pollute the ocean. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized the City's efforts on this project with a 2010 "Environmental Achievement Award." It is an example of the creativity and ingenuity that local efforts can bring to the table to solve local problems.

Mr. Bobko has supported Hermosa Beach's "Cool Cities" initiative, which is a program that promotes the adoption of policies at the local level to reduce local greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and enhance urban livability.

Mr. Bobko has supported efforts to cut his City's operating costs by reducing energy expenditures by making Hermosa a sustainable, "carbon neutral" city. Hermosa Beach was the first city in the South Bay, and the first city in all of Los Angeles County to declare their intent to become carbon neutral and sustainable.