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Letter: Why to favor carbon tax

There are many reasons I chose to move to Carbondale: world-class skiing, amazing fly-fishing, a unique community living, working and playing in one of the most beautiful valleys in North America. All those reasons depend upon a stable and intact climate. That is why ballot measure 2A is so important to the health and sustainability of our town.

There is a false notion that we must choose between the environment and the economy. During my 10 years at Patagonia, we rejected that claim and demonstrated that we could benefit both the planet and our business at the same time.

Similarly, ballot measure 2A will require that folks pay a bit more on their utility bills, but this monthly payment is an opportunity for us to invest in our economy, in our town and the planet. 



The funds generated through 2A will support energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy infrastructure for homes and businesses. These measures will help residents save energy and save money overall and will support our local economy.

It is estimated that every $1 provided in rebates will stimulate another $3.30 in spending. Those dollars are spent locally and support a local workforce. The city of Boulder passed the same measure in 2006 and 2012, and their economy is thriving. All across the country, communities that are succeeding are those that prioritize livability and sustainability.



In the long run, investments in clean energy pay themselves back many times over. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory predicts that after five years, the sum of annual savings from clean energy improvements is 3.5 times the amount provided in rebates.

Measure 2A will help us cut our addiction to fossil fuels, embrace clean energy solutions and achieve our emissions reduction goals.

Do we want to look back and say that we had the chance to act on climate change, but voted no? Or that we came together as bold leaders to implement solutions to climate change, invest in our community, and grow our economy? Join me. Vote “yes on 2A.” 

Casey Sheahan

Carbondale


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