Our History
Our History
The port and goods movement industries that use the Port of Los Angeles, operated for decades without considering the environmental and public health impacts on the community. The Harbor Community Benefit Foundation (HCBF) traces its roots to over a decade of organized struggle, by environmental and community groups in opposition to observed health risks and environmental impacts caused by Port-related sources, which began with the China Shipping litigation.
Identified negative cumulative impacts of the Port’s business operations include: (a) air pollution, (b) water pollution, (c) increase public health risks, (d) land use, (e) damage to aquatic and riparian wildlife due to Port expansion both on and off Port lands, (f) loss of recreational space, and (g) aesthetic impacts.
Our Founding Documents
Here are some key documents to provide a general understanding of how HCBF was established and the original criteria for our funding.
TraPac Memorandum of Understanding (“TraPac MOU”): The Agreement with the City and Port to establish a Port Community Mitigation Trust Fund (PCMTF) that HCBF would exclusively administer. Provides an overview of funding categories and designated projects (Land Use Study, etc.).
HCBF Bylaws: Provides guidance for board meetings and Board of Director participation and selection.
Port Community Mitigation Trust Fund Operating Agreement: Provides an overview of project funding, how grant are approved, selection criteria, and additional processes.
Our Strategic Plan
In January 2013, HCBF’s Board of Directors adopted a 2013-2016 Strategic Plan. Our first four-year plan reinforces our firm commitment to enhance the vibrant communities of Wilmington and San Pedro, to be transparent, to work collaboratively with our stakeholders, and to assure the viability of the Foundation.
