I would like to adjourn tonight’s meeting in memory of Karen Pearson Hall, a local environmental activist and dear friend of mine who passed away on June 9th.
Karen had a career as a psychologist and a marriage, family and child therapist.
She was also active in the non-profit world, fighting to protect and preserve the environment.
She joined the Canyon Preservation Committee in the early 1990s because she had a deep love for the Placerita, Whitney and Elsmere Canyons, and also founded the local SCV Sierra Club group.
In her role with these two organizations, Karen was among the leaders in the fight against the Elsmere Landfill.
She also worked with Watt Industries to persuade them to sell Whitney Canyon to the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy – protecting that area from becoming an 800-unit housing development.
Karen also was instrumental in securing a buffer zone around the Placerita Canyon Nature Center, which protects the area from potential encroachment and preserves natural habitats.
In 2003, Karen was honored by the Sierra Club with the Angeles Chapter’s top conservation award.
This City Council has also had the honor of recognizing her for her work to protect our local canyons and open space areas on multiple occasions.
In addition, a trailhead was named after her by the Nature Center.
Because of Karen’s commitment to our community, we are all able to enjoy the many hiking trails and open space exploration opportunities available today.
About a decade ago, Karen moved away from Santa Clarita to be closer to her grandchildren and other family members.
Sadly, she passed away on June 9th with her son by her side.
Our heart goes out to Karen’s son, Michael, her grandchildren, and family members, and our thoughts are with all who knew Karen during this difficult time.