We have become a society that wants more, more, more without ever having to think about where it all comes from. Following are statements made at the meeting the Council voted to spend up to $25,000 (6 to 1 vote with me in minority) fighting the proposed LNG siting at Weaver's Cove.
I've talked with representatives from the Coast Guard, RI Bridge & Tunnel Authority and Weaver's Cove project and have found there to be a lot of misinformation presented from opponents of the project. In order to give the public a better understanding of the project representatives from Weaver's Cove have agreed to participate in a public forum set for next Wednesday evening in the Council Chambers. Since there may be information presented that we all haven't heard before I asked that the vote be continued (the votes weren't there to do so).
I agree it is the job of the City Council to make every effort to ensure the safety of the citizens of the community but argue its equally important for the City Council to look at the big picture and long term effects of each of its votes.
Regarding LNG, the Newport City Council has an opportunity to take a stance as a leader and rather than allocating $25,000 to fight against LNG I propose we allocate $25,000 and hire a firm or consultant that would investigate alternate energy sources for the area. As I've stated in previous votes regarding the LNG siting, a 'not in my backyard' stance doesn't seem adequate when our appetite for energy consumption continues to grow at an unprecedented pace while current fossil fuels are decreasing. The last time the US could cover its own energy consumption with oil was in the 1950's and oil production peaked in the 1970's. At some point we as a community, and especially the seven of us, should discuss where our future energy will come from and what can we do to ensure that we safely meet the demands.
There are long term economic consequences to not having a LNG siting in Fall River as well. We're already seeing escalating gas and heating oil prices and power outages which should turn our thoughts to long term conservation and investigation of alternative sources. Newport has many residents that live below the poverty line and struggle with their heating bills each winter. Not investigating and embracing alternative energy sources does not help their plight.
I am not going to support this resolution in the hopes that by casting such a vote it will continue to spur discussions about alternative energy sources and lead us to taking a proactive stance in the future.
Updates & Thoughts on:
Taxes
© Colleen McGrath 2005