McOsker, City Council Pass Ordinance to Protect Communities from Trucking

LOS ANGELES - In response to concerns over the impact of trucking-related activities in the Wilmington and Harbor City communities, the Los Angeles City Council passed an ordinance called for by Councilmember Tim McOsker, the representative of these areas, aimed at regulating new or expanded trucking-related uses within the Wilmington-Harbor City Community Plan Area.

With the emergency ordinance currently in place set to expire in July 2024, this ordinance establishes comprehensive regulations governing trucking-related uses, including truck parking, storage, terminals, yards, and electric vehicle charging facilities for large vehicles. The ordinance passed today ensures permanent measures are in place while the General Plan update is in the process of adoption.

"The adoption of the trucking-related uses ordinance is necessary to protect the Wilmington and Harbor City communities that have been disproportionately burdened by exposure to truck traffic and pollutants," Councilmember Tim McOsker. "Operations at the Port of Los Angeles severely impact Wilmington and Harbor City and with an interim ordinance set to expire soon, this ordinance will address environmental concerns while larger planning issues in the Wilmington-Harbor City community plan are tackled. From the residents of the community to my office we have worked diligently on this legislation, which will remain effective until comprehensive regulations are established, safeguarding our environment and our future."

The ordinance defines and prohibits trucking-related around sensitive use zones including any use containing residential, medical centers, schools, or any open space and recreational uses. The ordinance prohibits truck parking for freight trucks and associated equipment relating to the operation, service, or storage of freight trucks.

According to Vince Bertoni, the Director of the Los Angeles City Planning Department, "this is one example that highlights how City Planning has been working with Angelenos to make sure there are more responsive policies and regulations that protect communities from environmental and health hazards."

"This ordinance is invaluable as it prevents the further over-saturation of trucking facilities that operate within our community, many of which operate without proper licensure," said Gina Martinez, Executive Board Chair of the Wilmington Neighborhood Council. "We commend our Councilmember for hearing our concerns and taking the appropriate action to protect this often forgotten and overlooked community. Listening to your constituents and taking proper action is the way government is supposed to work. We applaud Councilmember Tim McOsker for taking this position."

"This is a fair and reasonable approach that will help protect the community's health and safety," said Lorrie Lathrop, President of the Harbor City Neighborhood Council. "We are pleased to see that the proposed ordinance builds upon the Wilmington-Harbor City Interim Control Ordinance."