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3/7/2020 |
Ron |
Nelson |
Sell solar panels, clean batteries and EV charging stations |
Fairfield |
Connecticut |
My colonial in Fairfield, CT went solar in 2012. I produce most of the power that I need each year........7,000 kWh per year. I was able to re-finance my mortgage to get the $12,000 to pay for the... read more My colonial in Fairfield, CT went solar in 2012. I produce most of the power that I need each year........7,000 kWh per year. I was able to re-finance my mortgage to get the $12,000 to pay for the solar. I took money from savings, my kid's college education fund, to get the $10,000 for the Federal Income Tax credit on the solar system. The next time I filed my taxes, I got a check from the IRS and replenished the college fund. The solar paid off in late 2018 or early 2019. No more electric bill and thousands of dollars saved each year. The solar can last 40 years easy and NO maintenance and no roof leaks. Super Storm Sandy came 4 months after my solar was installed and no leaks and no movement and no damage to my roof or rafters or the solar panels, wiring or racking system.
My fist EV was leased through VW. It was an E-Golf and the savings in gas (no gas ever) paid for the lease every month and hardly any maintenance. It was fast and quiet. I pulled into my garage after work and plugged into the regular wall electrical socket and was full in the AM. Literally NO change to my monthly cash flow and I got a beautiful new car. BTW: so many bells and whistles!
My 2016 Chevy Volt PHEV (Plug in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) now has over 95,000 miles and over 50% of those miles are all electric. My wife uses this car all weekend to shop and get her hair done and every morning she goes to the gym and no gasoline required.
The car cost $31,000 net.......not too terribly much more than the normal new car sold in USA! AGAIN, very low maintenance cost. AND, when the solar panels on my roof power my car, it cost me 42 cents to travel 25 miles. BTW: if gasoline was priced correctly, carbon/polluting pricing, it would cost ++$5 per gallon or per 25 miles of travel. BTW: The CT Green Bank has had an incredible special on the Nissan Leaf for years.......almost 50% off and no more gasoline to purchase and burn and very low maintenance!
Now, I did stay on the fossil fuel train when I went from oil heat to natural gas heat in 2012. I am not happy that I burn fossil fuels to heat my home. But the savings to my family every year is thousands of dollars and I guess the pollution is less.
The final phase is to put new stronger panels on my roof and get all electric heating.
The new insulation in my home was a no interest loan that is on my electric bill every month for 3 years.......$60 per month. I am pretty certain the cost savings in natural gas to heat my home and electricity to cool my home more than makes up for the $60 per month. After 3 years, I have no insulation installment payment and I just save.
I will be 60 years old when the insulation installment payments are complete and my energy bills will be very, very low. My gasoline bill will be very low too. I will prop up the economy because I will have more $$$$ to spend on things other than dirty fuels.
I have an electric bike and an electric one wheel that fills with sunshine from my solar.....they are so fun to ride/drive. It is so nice to NOT be in a car to go get dogfood at Stop & Shop. It is so nice to say HI to people along the way and blow past cars that are stuck at congested intersections and red lights. I loved my gasoline motorcycle but my Raleigh electric bike is much better for my health and the Planet's.
I hate being a radical ass but....... if we made a law in Connecticut that every car on State or Federal highways and byways (from 6 am to 10 am and 3 pm to 7 pm) must have 2 people in them. The pollution would be half and the congestion would be half. In an instant!
With FB and tweets and insta whatevers, social media..........people can find ride-shares in a millisecond and never, ever be put out. The costs of the morning and evening commutes would tumble......more money for people to spend on other things. More people would chat on the way to work and this World would be a better place.
And talking radical.......no more selling of fossil fuels or the engines that burn them. The economy would thrive. Jobs would be everywhere. Clean factories would be built in the great american Naugatuck Valley and the middle income jobs would be double what they are today.
Capitalism would do it's thing.
Laws are what drive change and once changed, people won't ever look back and they will wonder why they spent thousands of dollars a year polluting the air and water and reducing their own life expectancy and that of their children.
I sell solar panels and clean battery back up generators and EV charging stations. I love the space I am in and saving people money and the Planet at the same time.
The technology is here now and the time is now.
Thank you.
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3/7/2020 |
John |
Manning Jr |
Massachusetts resident/TAX PAYER |
WORCESTER |
Massachusetts |
Dear TCI,
OK - right to the point...
We taxpayers are sick and tired of being continually railroaded by elected (and UN-elected/appointed) government "officials".... read more Dear TCI,
OK - right to the point...
We taxpayers are sick and tired of being continually railroaded by elected (and UN-elected/appointed) government "officials".
This is yet ANOTHER in an endless string of examples of same!
Putting aside the fact that "Manmade Climate Change" is essentially a H-U-G-E government scare/money grab -- climate has been.. errrr.. "changing" for 4,600,000,000 years -- how can these initiatives be rammed through against the WILL of the taxpayers (a VOTE!)
Please accept this email as my VEHEMENT OPPOSITION to TCI's proposed measures.
John Manning, Jr.
14 Brookshire Road
Worcester, MA 01609
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3/7/2020 |
Tawnie |
Olson |
None |
New Haven |
Connecticut |
I am very interested in seeing:
1 - safer bicycle lanes, preferably with concrete separating the lane from the road. Unfortunately, Northeast drivers are so aggressive that painting a line... read more I am very interested in seeing:
1 - safer bicycle lanes, preferably with concrete separating the lane from the road. Unfortunately, Northeast drivers are so aggressive that painting a line on the pavement is not enough to protect riders. I live in New Haven, and safe lanes that run out to neighboring towns (Hamden, West Haven, maybe even Guilford and the shore towns) would be fantastic. Having safer bike lanes and more people commuting via bicycle isn't just good for the environment, it's linked to a higher quality of life for communities lucky enough to have this infrastructure.
2 - More thoughtful infrastructure planning. I'm frustrated that I can take a train to Hartford, but then I'm stuck getting a cab to the airport. Surely there is a better way of doing this?
3 - Improved trains. Europe has such amazing train and bus systems, it feels like another planet when I'm there. I don't know why we can't have a quicker New Haven - Grand Central line? On a larger scale, I would love to be able to board a train in New Haven that could take me all the way to Montréal directly.
Thank you for your time and consideration! |
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3/8/2020 |
Brad |
Snyder |
Concerned voter and parent. |
Maple Grove |
Minnesota |
As a Science Teacher/Environmental Educator, Engineering/STEM Professional, Environmental/Energy/Human Health Advocate, and a concerned citizen, I wholeheartedly support the Transportation and... read more As a Science Teacher/Environmental Educator, Engineering/STEM Professional, Environmental/Energy/Human Health Advocate, and a concerned citizen, I wholeheartedly support the Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI) and demand the most comprehensive program possible: we need improved transportation options, we need polluters to pay their fair share for the damage they are causing, and we need to act now!! Climate change is effecting the Earth NOW so it is necessary that we act NOW!!
I demand a strong program that invests in creating safe roads for biking and walking, more frequent and reliable public transportation, greater access to electric vehicles, and a more equitable system with cleaner transportation options for everyone in the region!
I request Minnesota to join the plan to reduce transportation emissions and fight climate change!
Thanks! |
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3/9/2020 |
LAURA |
SPARK |
Clean Water Action |
Boston |
Massachusetts |
Attached is an updated version of a letter/comments from the Massachusetts Campaign for Clean Energy Future, with additional signatories added. Attached is an updated version of a letter/comments from the Massachusetts Campaign for Clean Energy Future, with additional signatories added. |
TCI Sign on letter_0.pdf |
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3/10/2020 |
amy |
maguire |
350 Mass Metro North Node |
winchester |
Massachusetts |
I am in support of this initiative because I believe we need to do everything we possibly can to reduce our carbon emissions and this would be a great step forward. One day our grandchildren will... read more I am in support of this initiative because I believe we need to do everything we possibly can to reduce our carbon emissions and this would be a great step forward. One day our grandchildren will ask us what we did when we knew we had time to make a change to help them have a better future. Supporting TCI will be something we can point to as a possible turning point.
Thank you.
Amy Hunter Maguire |
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3/10/2020 |
Hannah |
Gibson |
Ms. |
Boston |
Massachusetts |
We should do this! Climate Change is an existential threat to humanity and this is a once in a generation opportunity to address it! We should do this! Climate Change is an existential threat to humanity and this is a once in a generation opportunity to address it! |
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3/10/2020 |
Lynn |
McGregor |
resident of Massachusetts |
Cambridge |
Massachusetts |
As a person with asthma and soon to be first time parent, the TCI would represent a huge step towards addressing two major concerns I have for my own health and that of my family – climate change... read more As a person with asthma and soon to be first time parent, the TCI would represent a huge step towards addressing two major concerns I have for my own health and that of my family – climate change and air pollution. I would like to thank Governor Baker for his leadership on the TCI. The TCI offers many benefits for citizens, and I am looking forward to its implementation to help us 1) reduce a key source of greenhouse gas emissions to make progress towards reducing the potential impacts of climate change, 2) reducing transportation generated air pollution, improving the health of all residents of these states, and 3) increasing the robustness of our public transit infrastructure, reducing traffic congestion and leading to improved livability of our communities while giving citizens precious time back in their days. To help realize all of these benefits, I urge you to adopt the most aggressive greenhouse gas reduction recommended by current climate change research. I also urge you to consider disproportionate increases in public transit resources to currently underserved communities and those with disproportionate air pollution exposure. |
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3/11/2020 |
Tony |
Moureilles |
Concerned Resident |
Plymouth |
Massachusetts |
The more we limit pollution from motor fuels, the more jobs are created, the more the economy grows, the healthier our air is and the more lives we save.
Governors from across the... read more The more we limit pollution from motor fuels, the more jobs are created, the more the economy grows, the healthier our air is and the more lives we save.
Governors from across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic released a draft agreement to limit climate pollution from motor fuels and invest in an economy built on clean transportation. These changes will reduce traffic congestion, make clean vehicles more accessible, increase jobs, and grow the economy.
Massachusetts needs to be a part of this movement. |
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3/12/2020 |
Eleanor |
Fort |
Green For All |
Boston |
Massachusetts |
Please see the petition below and attached 196 signatures from across the TCI region. These can be added to the previous 298 signatures we submitted in November which had signed onto the same... read more Please see the petition below and attached 196 signatures from across the TCI region. These can be added to the previous 298 signatures we submitted in November which had signed onto the same request, for a total of 494 signatures from Green For All supporters.
Dear Transportation & Climate Initiative:
We applaud your efforts to design a regional carbon pricing program for the transportation sector across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic Region. There is no question, we must take steps to cut pollution from this sector and invest in solutions.
We must simultaneously take specific, measurable, and meaningful steps to ensure the communities hit first and worst by pollution, or who have inadequate access to mobility options, can fully participate and benefit from a clean, modern, reliable, and affordable transportation system. This commitment should be expressed in any regional commitment (such as an MOU), and should not be left to individual states to determine whether or how they will address the needs of our most impacted communities.
Last summer, organizations representing racial, economic, transit, and environmental justice communities delivered a set of 9 principles for policy design to ensure the regional program builds in the guardrails that will ensure protections and guarantees for communities most impacted. Each of these equity principles, especially a clear process for ensuring communities are at the table, must be baked into the regional program, committed to by each state that plans to adopt the program, in order to ensure that some communities don’t get left behind.
I echo and support the voices of those who are directly impacted determining what they need to see as part of the
program design. I urge you to commit to specific steps for each of the 9 principles for policy design in MOU.
Thank you,
(Signatures attached) |
TCI Petition Delivery_2020-02-27 - Sheet1 (1).pdf |
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3/12/2020 |
Alan |
Belek |
Resident |
Norwood |
Massachusetts |
I understand that you want to cut GHG emissions, but TCI is not the way to do it. The TCI gas tax will mean less money in the taxpayer's pocket and an even higher cost of living, when we are... read more I understand that you want to cut GHG emissions, but TCI is not the way to do it. The TCI gas tax will mean less money in the taxpayer's pocket and an even higher cost of living, when we are already near the highest in the nation. And all of this to mere negligible effects on the environment. I'm asking you to please reject the Transportation and Climate Initiative and keep Massachusetts out! |
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3/13/2020 |
Michael |
Moehringer |
Clintons Ditch Cooperative Co., Inc. |
Cicero |
New York |
I am adamantly opposed to this initiative. For the reasons well summarized in your email.
We will be placed at an economic disadvantage relative to those that choose not to... read more I am adamantly opposed to this initiative. For the reasons well summarized in your email.
We will be placed at an economic disadvantage relative to those that choose not to participate, small businesses like ours will be hurt by rising costs. The infrastructure built will not benefit my business, but will but force us to pay more for fuel that is pretty much not optional for my business. Central New York also has a large economic base in distribution and logistics, manufacturing, and agriculture that could be adversely affected by fuel price increases.
Centerstate CEO should NOT advocate for such an intiative, our state is already at a competitive disadvantage due to burdensome tax and regulation, this would further exacerbate that condition. It would add yet another cost burden to doing business here that would have to be passed on to the consumer. And in the end, I don't believe it would have any real impact on "health benefits and economic benefits". |
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3/13/2020 |
Karen |
Hartley |
private |
Collegeville |
Pennsylvania |
Reducing pollution from transportation is a key component to reducing Pennsylvania's emissions. We have reached the limit of reductions from industry and other sources. The greatest source... read more Reducing pollution from transportation is a key component to reducing Pennsylvania's emissions. We have reached the limit of reductions from industry and other sources. The greatest source of air pollution is from individual vehicles.
Public transit investments that can be made with TCI proceeds would be valuable
Choose the aggressive greenhouse gas reduction target that the most recent climate science tells us we need!
This policy must prioritize clean investments in areas overburdened by pollution and/or for those who don’t have access to transportation choices! |
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3/16/2020 |
maggie |
egger |
self |
Wellesley |
Massachusetts |
I have read with great disappointment your plan to push through this gas tax without allowing the legislature to vote. This is a serious tax and one that does not help stop pollution but instead... read more I have read with great disappointment your plan to push through this gas tax without allowing the legislature to vote. This is a serious tax and one that does not help stop pollution but instead puts more money into the hands of government. As of now, the MBTA has the money it needs to upgrade and run more efficiently but government beauocracy stands in the way. I want my present tax dollars to work for me not for the unions and government run programs. Stop the tax madness! Let the legislature vote on this measure!
Thank you1 |
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3/17/2020 |
Sandra |
(Not Provided) |
Resident |
(Not Provided) |
Massachusetts |
There is NO way this is NOT a tax.
We have had ENOUGH of Charlie Baker and the rest of the ma. political class.
There is NO shame in any of you.
We have ZERO... read more There is NO way this is NOT a tax.
We have had ENOUGH of Charlie Baker and the rest of the ma. political class.
There is NO shame in any of you.
We have ZERO representation and now that the "republican" gov. Is really just another democrat there is really nobody watching out for people just trying to live their lives and take care of their family. This thought process of " we're untouchable and can do anything we want" has to end.
TCI will NOT survive a court challenge(outside of Ma.) with neutral judges and honest people.
When do CITIZENS get a break? Don't give us the tax deduction WE passed twenty years ago and tell us you" gave "it to us. WE passed it and you couldn't even honor that for 20 years.
DeLeo,Spilka and Baker ALL will be voted out after this absolute dip off. |
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3/17/2020 |
Jonathan |
Inslee |
Conservation Voters of Pa |
Downingtown |
Pennsylvania |
Obviously a huge problem and the solution will only come from government. Please act as quickly as possible. Obviously a huge problem and the solution will only come from government. Please act as quickly as possible. |
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3/18/2020 |
Orin |
Robinson |
Retired |
Mystic |
Connecticut |
Yes for electric school buses Yes for electric school buses |
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3/19/2020 |
Daniela |
Ochoa |
DC Sierra Club, Ecomadres Maryland |
Washington |
District of Columbia |
We desperately need a Climate Regional Policy. Now more than ever we need to LIVE, Live our values, take a LEAP and boost ASAP our smarth growht initiatives with clean energy transportation... read more We desperately need a Climate Regional Policy. Now more than ever we need to LIVE, Live our values, take a LEAP and boost ASAP our smarth growht initiatives with clean energy transportation systems, investing in electric vehicles and charging infrastructure, clean public, transportation, walking and biking mobility. Please let me know if you still receive this comment, thanks you! |
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3/19/2020 |
Mark |
Levin |
Private citizen |
plymouth Meeting |
Pennsylvania |
It is very important that the regional low-carbon transportation policy proposal that would cap and reduce carbon emissions from the combustion of transportation fuels through a cap-and-invest... read more It is very important that the regional low-carbon transportation policy proposal that would cap and reduce carbon emissions from the combustion of transportation fuels through a cap-and-invest program or other pricing mechanisms be completed in a timely manner. Since the federal government is not interested in doing this the states must take the lead. Time is running out for the governments of the world to limit the effects of climate change. We must do all we can to reduce carbon emissions. I am glad that you are taking the lead in this important issue. Hopefully more areas of the country will follow your lead. Thank you |
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3/20/2020 |
Staci |
Rubin |
Conservation Law Foundation |
Boston |
Massachusetts |
Please see the attached joint comments of 44 signatories throughout the TCI region regarding equity and equitable investments, including our recommendations for the final memorandum of... read more Please see the attached joint comments of 44 signatories throughout the TCI region regarding equity and equitable investments, including our recommendations for the final memorandum of understanding. Please let Staci Rubin know if you have questions. |
Equity & Investments Joint TCI Letter 3.20.20.pdf |
