Untitled Document
 City/County Ratings
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Air Quality:Check
with the local air resources board to see what the air quality for the
area is for various times of the year. Check to see if you are
downwind from any factories that vent noxious fumes into the
environment.
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Allergens: Information
of pollen count and other allergens are typically available for several
parts of the country. Before you fall in love with a new
community, be sure to investigate the many aspects of air quality
throughout that can end up making your life a misery.
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Crime: Criminals
tend to care nothing for the environment. If there is money to be
made by polluting your environment, chances are someone is doing it and
someone else is getting paid to cover it up. Take time to
investigate the types of crimes being committed to insure both you and
the environment have a fighting chance.
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Farming/Gardening Restrictions: Some
communities want to control your every movement. Be sure to check
and see if there are any homeowners or water regulations against
growing your own vegetables or having a small garden.
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Fiscal Fitness: If
you use a financial planner, CPA or tax agency, look for a copy of
their environmental policy on their website. If you don't find one
but like what you've heard about a local source, don't be afraid to ask
them about their policy. If they don't have one, recommend they
visit Earth Mom, and learn how to adapt one for their website or
marketing materials.
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Industry: What
approach does local industry take when protecting the air, earth and
water quality for downwind and downriver communities. Carefully
research the county records for past incidents and cancer
clusters. Ask the locals about any ongoing problems. Don't
be afraid to question everything. If you don't get clear cut
answers, cross this community off your list.
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Leisure: What
types of trails and recreation has been set aside for leisure
activities. Are there ample or just one or two? Is there a
greenbelt available within your community? Make a list of leisure
areas so that you can keep your walking and hiking interests keen.
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Open Spaces: Is
your proposed new community nothing but highrises as far as the eye can
see? If so, investigate the potential for roof top gardens or
exercise areas. Check the internet to find a nearby community with
open spaces and easy access to mass transit if your job takes you
downtown.
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Recreation: What
types of recreation is easily available. The more local
entertainment, the less you'll want to travel away from home for
extended vacations. Make a list of all the possible recreational
activities available in your area.
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Severe Weather: Is
your proposed new community subject to severe weather? Floods,
large hail and droughts can all be costly and disruptive to your
lifestyle. Have there been recent forest fires or is one
overdo? If so, unless you've planned carefully, expect winter
rains to bring mud and floods to your doorstep.
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Water Quality: No
matter how much filtered or bottled water you drink, you're still
washing dishes and clothes using the local water supply. Be sure
to investigate the quality of the water.
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