Dear Mayor Nash and City Councilmembers,
My name is Eduardo L. Hernandez, and I am seeking reappointment to the Environmental Quality Commission. I was appointed in February 2025 to complete a partial term (first meeting in March), which ended in April 2026.
In that time, I focused on getting up to speed and contributing where I could. I participated in the Food Systems Ad Hoc Subcommittee and the Matching Rebates Ad Hoc Subcommittee. On Matching Rebates, we explored how to help residents transition from gas to heat pump water heaters ahead of the 2027 zero-NOx rules, including cost gaps and options like rebates, bulk-buy programs, and financing. On Food Systems, we focused on improving access to healthy food, reducing waste, and connecting this work to climate and environmental justice goals.
I also contributed to Climate Action Plan discussions, the EQC work plan, and the annual report. I regularly attend City Council meetings and stay engaged with community-based organizations and discussions in Belle Haven.
I support the Environmental Justice Element and its focus on fair access, reduced pollution exposure, and meaningful community involvement. In practice, this means advocating for Belle Haven residents in Menlo Park, especially around access and affordability. I strongly believe community engagement has to be consistent and not just procedural.
If reappointed to a full four-year term, I will focus on equitable electrification, implementation of the Environmental Justice Element, and stronger outreach in underrepresented communities. I am still learning, but I am committed to doing the work.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Eduardo L. Hernandez
Resident of District 1 for 26 years
