This is an MCAF interview with Toni Moceri, Michigan’s Macomb County Commissioner:
What is unique about protecting your district’s resources?
As Macomb County Commissioner for District 1, I represent residents of Warren. The population has grown in cultural diversity and has also experienced significant economic changes, particularly in recent years. A unique vehicle for working toward protecting resources in my district is the Macomb County Green Schools Program. Through this program, we encourage schools to implement initiatives which save money, promote environmental stewardship and successfully reach beyond school grounds to educate the community. For the five years the program has been in existence, we have steadily increased participation. The creativity and quality of project initiatives has been amazing. The leadership of our students, teachers and parent volunteers is inspiring.
Are you worried about any specific effects of climate change on the children of your district?
I am not a parent, but I am concerned about climate change and its effects on food production and children’s access to fresh, healthful food in the future. The Macomb Food Collaborative works to ensure access to safe, fresh, fair and healthy food. We’re spearheading food policy at the county level to support efforts for increased food access, and to advocate for our farmers and local food businesses. This is all key to building a more robust local food economy for the future.
Why is a bipartisan effort so important to you when working on issues of air quality?
Put simply, everyone needs to breathe. Air quality, therefore, is a basic issue which is not political and for which there is no single solution. Bipartisan attention, effort and collaboration is necessary to address the various factors that impact air quality, such as developing infrastructure for public transit, decreasing vehicle emissions, encouraging electric vehicle purchases, waste management, recycling and education.
Is there anything you’d like to share that is important for Moms Clean Air Force members to know?
I encourage Moms Clean Air Force to continue fighting for clean air and a clean environment for children. There are no greater advocates for kids than their moms and dads. When parents are organized and assert a unified voice on an issue, they are a formidable political force. Moms Clean Air Force has partners in Macomb County. Please do not hesitate to call on us if we can ever add to your efforts.
Commissioner Toni Moceri is serving her third term as a County Commissioner in Macomb County, Michigan. As a policymaker, she works on a wide range of issues from governance to health & community services to the environment.