Plan Uses Tax Rebates To Lure Green Businesses To Poor Areas

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Some of the most polluted areas in Los Angeles would be designated "green zones" under a plan to lure cleaner companies to low-income industrial neighborhoods.

A motion to be introduced Friday in the City Council would provide tax rebates and other aid to clean businesses that locate in Pacoima, Boyle Heights and Wilmington. Meanwhile, polluters would be targeted for more inspections and enforcement.

The poor areas are home to heavily polluting businesses such as metal recyclers, chrome-platers, rock cutters and auto body shops that often are close to homes.

The Los Angeles Times says a study of census data shows that more than 1.2 million people in the greater Los Angeles area live within two miles of facilities that handle hazardous materials.

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