Letters to the Editor
Editor:
I read “Powershift Toward The Future … “ in the Mid-December issue, and am glad to hear the town manager has been charged with working with citizens to facilitate energy conservation. The threat of global warming is real, and its initial effects already seem to be coming to pass. I believe we all have an obligation to do our part to prevent an environmental catastrophe that could threaten society’s very existence. To this end, I have some simple suggestions for the town to help cut its green-house gas emissions:
• Remove all 4-way stop signs within town limits. It is not necessary for all vehicles to have to come to a stop, idle while confused drivers decide who should go next, and then accelerate towards the next stop-sign.
• The stop sign at the intersection of Chester St. and Royal Ave. should be removed and replaced by a yield sign… you know just like the yield sign that worked fine at that intersection for 50 years before it was replaced with a stop sign. I’m sure there are other useless stop signs in the town that could also be replaced by yield signs. Imagine the increases in fuel economy to be had for vehicles traveling in town by following these three simple suggestions - not to mention the time saved by citizens.
I look forward to the town adopting some common-sense solutions in its plan to reduce green-house gas emissions.
Rob Olinger
823 N. Shenandoah Ave.
Front Royal, VA
Editor:
I am alarmed to read that the majority of the Front Royal Town Council has voted to fund the development of a coal-burning power plant along the Ohio River.
If built, this power plant would aggravate global warming, advance mountain-top removal coal mining, stimulate construction of new transmission lines and increase pollution of our air, water and land.
Coal combustion is a primary contributor to what may be the greatest crisis facing our entire planet global warming. I view the Town Council’s decision to support the development of a coal-fired power plant as cynical and socially irresponsible.
An ulterior motive behind the recent push to quickly plan for and build additional power plants is to “beat the clock” on significant regulation of greenhouse gas emissions that are likely in the coming years. When this legislation is enacted, ratepayers will ultimately bear the financial consequences of the power plants’ failure to control polluting emissions. I don’t believe that the electricity consumers of Front Royal need or want the financial risk that is associated with investing in dirty coal-fired power.
I ask that our Town use our resources to increase investment in clean energy sources and energy conservation measures. It is our responsibility to step forward and choose the path of stewardship and integrity. We should focus on smart solutions for our energy needs.
Let us take our first step on a journey to create a 21st century energy policy of which we can be proud.
Front Royal can do better. Let us support clean energy now!
Kristen Adams
1121 Summit Ave
Front Royal, VA