10/28/2019 |
Mayghan |
Farrin |
Maine resident |
Topsham |
Maine |
Maine is Maine for a reason. We are NOT California. We aren't surfing and eating avocado for breakfast. We are a different people. We are hunting people. We are woods people. We are different... read more Maine is Maine for a reason. We are NOT California. We aren't surfing and eating avocado for breakfast. We are a different people. We are hunting people. We are woods people. We are different. I can NOT wait for LePage to run again. Mills is ruining out state. And this initiative is bologna |
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11/3/2019 |
Esther |
Lacognata-Palmer |
An elder |
Topsham |
Maine |
Certainly a great idea not only do we need efficient well run alternative fuel public transportation but it must Be superbly well run reliable pick up or scheduled stops
Something akin to... read more Certainly a great idea not only do we need efficient well run alternative fuel public transportation but it must Be superbly well run reliable pick up or scheduled stops
Something akin to Go Go Grandparent managed by a super logarithm for rural or small town densities reliably well run
It’s a huge challenge
Yes our elders as well as youth need it
Good luck
May the best young brains be engaged in designing it |
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11/4/2019 |
Victor |
Langelo |
None |
Topsham |
Maine |
Transportation in Maine is the largest contributor to climate pollution. In our town energy audit, transportation contributed approximately 70% of the greenhouse gases emitted in our town. At the... read more Transportation in Maine is the largest contributor to climate pollution. In our town energy audit, transportation contributed approximately 70% of the greenhouse gases emitted in our town. At the same time, traditional industries in Maine are being impacted by the changing climate. That will only accelerate in the future. However, Maine alone can't modernize our transportation system. It needs to be at least a regional initiative.
Unlike other more populous states we don't have the population density that supports mass transit outside of Portland and Lewiston. At the same time the average income is Maine is less than in other northeast states. Solutions that work in Maine will help inform approaches outside major cities in other states. Electric vehicles cost 1/3 as much to operate as gasoline powered ones. We need a way to solve the lower range and higher initial cost. |
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11/5/2019 |
Nancy B |
chandler |
Sierra Club |
Topsham |
Maine |
I am a long time Geo Metro driver with my husband operating all electric cars for 10 years. I know poor people in Lewiston who want to work in Portland, but have no way to get there. I volunteer... read more I am a long time Geo Metro driver with my husband operating all electric cars for 10 years. I know poor people in Lewiston who want to work in Portland, but have no way to get there. I volunteer at the Gathering Place in Brunswick where many people need cheap transportation to Lewiston, via bus or train, but it's not available. The public needs regular bus routes between Lewiston and Brunswick so L/A residents have access to the major job source and services in Portland. Maine must reactivate the train line between Auburn and Portland to connect the two major urban areas of the state. Middle class workers will use this line, since it's much pleasanter, more affordable, and lower Carbon impact to ride instead of drive that distance.
I live in Topsham and support Governor Mills participation in the regional planning for greener public transportation in Maine. This plan must incorporate the most recent and best science on climate emissions from transportation. Transportation policy must be fair and inclusive for elderly, poor and handicapped people in Maine. This large group of Maine residents do not have private transportation and many need regular, affordable transport between Lewiston, Brunswick, and Portland to help meet their basic needs for essential services.
I am delighted and thankful that this policy planning includes both Republicans and Democrats, since it will work out compromises of cost, and practicality that will best serve Maine people and have support in the legislature to be enacted.
I am in the process of moving from 14 miles south of Bath to center of Topsham in order to reduce my driving time, climate impact, and costs. I am still able to walk the 1.4 miles to downtown Brunswick, yet will be working for cooperation between Topsham and Brunswick to extend Brunswick's good bus system to Topsham. This is one urban area which is only half connected via public transportation. Traffic congestion is moderate and growing both bypassing Brunswick and from Topsham to Brunswick and could be alleviated with an extended bus system. A regular bus system between Bath and Brunswick is greatly needed, since affordable housing in Brunswick is unavailable and very limited in Bath. Low income people who have no cars cannot get to work or housing between those two cities. The Brunswick Explorer bus has adapted and responded to need to transport students and refugees to and from the old Navy base at Cook's Corner.
Lanes for bicycle traffic should be established between urban areas and along scenic routes, as this can be both affordable transportation, good for people's health and reduce congestion, air pollution, and carbon emissions. Topsham has started this process of making a safe walking/biking path along the bypass connector between Rt 1 in Brunswick and Rt 196. When completed many Topsham residents will be able to walk and bike to the Topsham Fair Mall.
For decades I have wanted a dial in ride sharing system to be created using people's smart phones to schedule shared rides to work. The state and BIW have done this with vans for some of their workers. This concept could be applied to private vehicles with thought given to screening people in the system for criminal records. The state cannot guarantee safety of people using such a system, yet the potential to reduce gas miles driven is huge. Perhaps towns could create a register of screened drivers with insurance who are willing to share rides. Maine can build on our small town culture of looking after one another, and take better care of our isolated elderly and poor residents with such a service. I am part of a volunteer network of drivers with New Mainers who take non English speaking residents of Brunswick to their twice weekly English classes in Topsham. this involves scheduling about 15 drivers with 20 or more residents and setting up phone communication for cancelations. Such transportation is also provided, or connections to the bus systems, for people to attend essential meetings in Portland. BIcycles have also been given to every adult at Brunswick Landing who wants one, and training provided in bike safety and practice biking to the library.
Mostly I would like to see commuters sharing rides to minimize Carbon emissions, reduce traffic congestion and free up parking in urban areas. Thank you for this long needed subcommittee to design sensible transportation systems. Please look at European rail, and other public transport systems for adaptation to Maine's transport needs. |
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12/18/2019 |
Chris |
Cloutier |
citizen |
Topsham |
Maine |
This is a very bad idea. Peeriod! This is a very bad idea. Peeriod! |
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1/16/2020 |
Jacquelyn |
Crressy |
Concerned Citizen, member of Union of Concerned Scientists |
Topsham |
Maine |
I believe it is vitally important that we move very quickly to reduce pollution from transportation, our largest source of global-warming emissions, both regionally and nationally. In a state like... read more I believe it is vitally important that we move very quickly to reduce pollution from transportation, our largest source of global-warming emissions, both regionally and nationally. In a state like Maine, with vast stretches of rural areas with almost no transportation options other than private automobile, figuring out how to provide low-emission transportation and discourage the use of private cars should be of paramount importance. The benefits would go beyond slowing climate change catastrophe; Maine's older population needs the security of being able to get to appointments and to be socially active once individuals are no longer able to drive.
Whatever policies are put in place should strive to be equitable, prioritizing clean investments in areas overburdened by pollution and/or for those who don't have access.
It is imperative that Maine formally join the plan to reduce emissions. How much of our storied coastline can we afford to have changed by rising waters and more frequent an intense storms?
I applaud the bipartisan nature of this project within our region. It is time to move forward! |
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2/21/2020 |
Michelle |
Moody |
none |
Topsham |
Maine |
As a citizen of Maine, I just wan to go on the record that I want to see a regional plan that cleans up our pollution from transportation. We need to encourage and demand cleaner cars, more... read more As a citizen of Maine, I just wan to go on the record that I want to see a regional plan that cleans up our pollution from transportation. We need to encourage and demand cleaner cars, more public transportation, more rail service, more electric charging stations and better traffic control that avoids cars spewing pollution due to traffic jams. The Gulf of Maine is a critical marine resource. Yet, we are in danger of it changing forever due to climate change and some of the fastest water temperature rise. We must move forward in dealing with climate change. Transportation is a significant contributor to the problem and must be a giant part of the solution. Please, do all you can to fix this problem and not just let the status quo continue. Thanks |
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2/26/2020 |
Maureen |
Hurley |
Topsham |
Topsham |
Vermont |
I think it's vital that we do all we can to mitigate, and work toward stopping climate change by any means. Lives are being lost. Pollution is the cause, has been taking lives for a long time... read more I think it's vital that we do all we can to mitigate, and work toward stopping climate change by any means. Lives are being lost. Pollution is the cause, has been taking lives for a long time and the acceleration is ugly to see. Because it isn't yet so near to us doesn't mean we won't be feeling effects of all kinds as our fellow human beings, and living things in general are forced to flee pr perish.
I have a grown daughter in California who was extremely lucky to escape being burned to death/ It truly brings the situation home and into focus. The costs of paying a carbon tax could be budgeted for by giving up a bad habit or two, also helpful.
I'm wondering what % of VTs Carbon emissions come from that new Burlington airport and the military in general and if they can be made to pay for their emissions as well. I 'm hoping that New Hampshire will get a chance to reformulate their position on this. I think we should carry ahead no matter what.
Thanks for the opportunity to comment. |
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2/28/2020 |
Stephen |
Littlefield |
Taxpayer |
TOPSHAM |
Maine |
The proposed gas tx increase is destructive for business! Everyything comes into the state and moves over the road, that means everything will become more expensive! Many of us can not afford an... read more The proposed gas tx increase is destructive for business! Everyything comes into the state and moves over the road, that means everything will become more expensive! Many of us can not afford an increase like this, as it effects everything that we purchase from food to clothing to building materials, EVERYTHING! This is poorly thought out and should be shut down, unless the plan is to have half the population on welfare.
Please do not push this poorly thought out idea forward! |
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11/21/2019 |
THOMAS |
O'MALLEY |
self |
Topsfield |
Massachusetts |
Stop non-legislative tax hikes. STOP punishing the citizenry
Stop non-legislative tax hikes. STOP punishing the citizenry
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12/31/2019 |
Jonathan |
Hutchison |
Citizen |
Tonawanda |
New York |
If this policy does not include cutting spending to sprawling roads and development, which continues to encourage single occupancy vehicle use and increases Vehicle Miles Traveled, it will be... read more If this policy does not include cutting spending to sprawling roads and development, which continues to encourage single occupancy vehicle use and increases Vehicle Miles Traveled, it will be useless. Effective pricing models including public parking, rolling, gas taxes are a must. The revenue generated should then be immediately invested back in to infrastructure that promotes walking, cycling, and public transportation use. |
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1/16/2020 |
Paul |
Heller |
Citizen |
Toms River |
New Jersey |
Clean mass transportation in various forms primarily railways are and have always been an affordable viable option to reduce pollution help clean the environment and lessen the affects of global... read more Clean mass transportation in various forms primarily railways are and have always been an affordable viable option to reduce pollution help clean the environment and lessen the affects of global warming
Please consider a strong effective transportation policy that would advance the aforementioned. The time for America to join the rest of the Democracy loving nations and be pro active if not the undisputed leader in the fight against climate change is Now. Thank you for your consideration.Paul Heller. |
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2/27/2020 |
Philip |
Dooley |
Dynage |
TOLLAND |
Connecticut |
Stop Global Warming NOW, or nothing else we do will matter.
Stop Global Warming NOW, or nothing else we do will matter.
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12/22/2019 |
Terence |
Garvey |
N/A |
Tiverton |
Rhode Island |
Everyone knows that the money collected will not be applied to anything related to the environment and that this entire scheme is being pushed through to to compensate for the pathetic job of... read more Everyone knows that the money collected will not be applied to anything related to the environment and that this entire scheme is being pushed through to to compensate for the pathetic job of managing the state. |
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2/25/2020 |
Todd |
Dennis |
Resident of Vermont |
Tinmouth |
Vermont |
Hi,
I am a resident of Vermont and I am opposed to the creation of the TCI. I attended a meeting, one of several held around the state, where we were told that this regional... read more Hi,
I am a resident of Vermont and I am opposed to the creation of the TCI. I attended a meeting, one of several held around the state, where we were told that this regional compact was based on another successful regional compact, the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). We were lead to believe that RGGI was successful in it's mission and that TCI would be as well by building off these successes. In fact, RGGI has failed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but instead has created a tax that emitters pay to emit greenhouse gases. Like most corporate taxes these days the tax ends up being pushed onto consumers, while the benefit of the tax is to support home upgrades to reduce energy usage for heating and cooling, the end result is a failure of it's promoted mission. From the presentation given, it was clear that TCI would do a similar thing by taxing those who import gasoline and diesel into the participating states which would then cause the price at the pump to increase. So the tax on the importers would be passed directly onto consumers. While the mission of TCI is commendable, to reduce the impacts of climate change in the transportation sector and to use the funds raised by the tax to support battery powered and other vehicle purchases by consumers to lower the amount of emissions from the transportation sector. This is an important goal to have and to realize. I am not convinced that creating a bureaucracy to increase taxes which may or not be successful in it's goals is the best solution. Are there alternatives to this approach that can have the same effects? A direct tax at the pumps that is designated for the support of transitioning our vehicle choices away from low mpg and high emissions ones? I am asking for a better and more well-thought out solution or an honest approach to the citizens of those states attempting to join this compact. This is a tax that will be directed onto consumers. Can we accomplish the same things with a direct tax on gasoline and diesel that is set aside in a fund to support this work? The gasoline and diesel market in our state is already a mess with prices much higher in the Chittenden County area even after the main owners of gas stations were sued by the state for price-fixing. Can we trust these people to not price fix when they are passing on a tax to us? A region-wide tax at the pump that is protected for its desired use is a much better way to accomplish our goals and doesn't try and pass off the plan as not a tax when it clearly is a direct tax to anyone who drives a vehicle.
Please oppose TCI until the plan is modified to be truthful to consumers and nullifies any possibility that the monopolies that already cheat consumers to do so in the name of minimizing the impacts of climate change. We must shift our transportation sector away from the use of fossil fuels which will not last forever and have negative impacts on our environment, TCI as it was laid out to the public is not the best way to do this. |
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11/12/2019 |
Joe |
Capuzzo |
Independent |
Thornton |
New Hampshire |
Thumbs down on the TCI Policy it’s not good. Thumbs down on the TCI Policy it’s not good. |
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10/25/2019 |
Kenneth |
Copp |
Businessman |
Thorndike |
Maine |
Since we know that 54% of carbon emission in Maine come from the transportation sector alone, this is reason enough to take immediate action to replace all combustion engine vehicles, both... read more Since we know that 54% of carbon emission in Maine come from the transportation sector alone, this is reason enough to take immediate action to replace all combustion engine vehicles, both commercial and private with clean and far more efficient all-electric versions as well as to build out the charging infrastructure to allow for seamless transportation that minimizes the transition from the convenience of time that we have enjoyed with the proliferation of fueling stations for internal combustion engines for so many years. We CAN do this! Without it, it will not be very convincing or compelling to the general populace for the rapid transformation of our means of transportation to a cleaner and brighter future. |
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2/25/2020 |
Kenneth |
Copp |
Citizens Climate Lobby |
Thorndike |
Maine |
We all are aware of the science of human-caused climate change and the climate crisis that is now upon us. Given the urgency of the hour, we need to make a war-time effort to stop the prolific... read more We all are aware of the science of human-caused climate change and the climate crisis that is now upon us. Given the urgency of the hour, we need to make a war-time effort to stop the prolific production of greenhouse gases and CO2 emissions. The fact that our transportation sector is one of the leading causes of this dangerous phenomenon clearly shows us that the reduction of CO2 and PM 2.5 particulates from all forms of internal combustion engine-driven vehicles is vital. The switch of all our public transportation vehicles, be they buses or trucks must be rapidly transformed into all-electric motor propulsion. And we don't have time to wait another 10-20 years! It needs to start now!
We have the technology and funds to do so. The cost to not do so and delay will be far more than if we act now. There are studies abroad that clearly show this. We also need to stop the production and sale of all internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and heavily tax those still on the road. Gas subsidies to the big oil corporations need to end as well. If this were done, we would see a mass shift to electric vehicles by the populace in general, and car manufacturers would either convert to all electric-powered vehicles or cease to exist.
We're talking about the future of human life on this planet, let alone all the non-human species. This is serious, and if we really love our children, and our own well being, but especially the children and grandchildren in our lives, we will take this seriously and be willing to do what it takes to make the change. The sacrifices we are willing to make now will pay large dividens in the near future! |
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1/12/2020 |
Mark |
Winston |
Old Caucasian Male |
Thomaston |
Maine |
Not interested. No thanks. Will vote against any attempt to add these kind of taxes, and those who support them.
Not interested. No thanks. Will vote against any attempt to add these kind of taxes, and those who support them.
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1/12/2020 |
Kat |
Keys |
Self employed |
Thomaston |
Maine |
I am against this plan. I drive all throughout Maine to help assist my disabled Mother and other family members spread over the state. And my job requires I drive out of state. I cannot be forced... read more I am against this plan. I drive all throughout Maine to help assist my disabled Mother and other family members spread over the state. And my job requires I drive out of state. I cannot be forced to drive an electric car. |
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