2/10/2020 |
Elizabeth |
Kroll |
Vermont Resident |
Brattleboro |
Vermont |
I highly commend the bipartisan TCI and approve of its mission to develop a regional policy for low-carbon public transportation for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region. Transportation... read more I highly commend the bipartisan TCI and approve of its mission to develop a regional policy for low-carbon public transportation for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region. Transportation emissions account for 45% of Vermont’s total greenhouse gas pollution. To meet our carbon-reduction goals, we MUST reduce pollution from our cars and trucks. Expanding public, shared transportation is crucial and will cut down on pollution and offer opportunities to develop clean-energy-fueled transportation. And it will ALSO help address the social isolation of Vermonters (and residents of all TCI states) who do not own or drive their own vehicles -- giving them affordable public options to get to jobs, appointments, errands, and even other towns and states. Now is the time to create the future of transportation, not cling to the insufficient status quo. |
TCI Transpor-Hearing Let 2-13-20.odt |
2/11/2020 |
Chapin |
Kaynor |
Self |
Williston |
Vermont |
I'm ambivalent... While I believe we must do what it takes to reduce our carbon footprint and a regional (or national) solution is needed, I read the MOU and don't understand how this... read more I'm ambivalent... While I believe we must do what it takes to reduce our carbon footprint and a regional (or national) solution is needed, I read the MOU and don't understand how this raises more money than could be raised from either increasing the existing taxes on fuels or instituting a production- or distributor- level tax on all fuels. It is complex, requires new bureaucracy (overhead), and introduces opportunities for profiteers to work the system. And... it won't start to fund clean energy projects for two years. Conclusion: If this is the only way to increase cost of fossil fuels and incentivize green initiatives, then I'm supportive, but I'd prefer a more direct and immediate solution. |
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2/12/2020 |
Jon |
Lutz |
Strafford Energy Committee |
South Strafford |
Vermont |
At a recent energy and climate action conference one of the speakers suggested that "we need carrots, sticks and tambourines" to get the seemingly impossible and at very least difficult... read more At a recent energy and climate action conference one of the speakers suggested that "we need carrots, sticks and tambourines" to get the seemingly impossible and at very least difficult task done of getting off of fossil fuels and moving rapidly to a sustainable future. I applaud the desire to implement some sort of stick in fossil fuel pricing but hoping that there would be a carrot to make more people jump towards a the sustainable side.
Can you bring the tambourine along to highlight this as well as drive an initiative towards development?
My idea revolves around the fact that there are far too many cars traveling with only one person in them. It is particularly difficult to have people in rural settings think of alternate transportation other than their own personal vehicle. Why not develop an app that is akin to a "hitch Uber" where everyone can be an Uber driver or rider by simply going through a process of verification and review? Drivers and riders could receive some sort of compensation or reward for sharing their trip and ultimately lowering their carbon footprints. This makes essentially everyone a mass transit driver/rider and could develop into a network where connections could be made at major intersections to help interested riders make their final destination. This idea can grow organically once there is some adoption but could be quickly incentivized by an organization or government with the capability to review and make a safer integration for all concerned. |
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2/13/2020 |
Matthew |
Peake |
resident of Rockingham, VT |
Rockingham |
Vermont |
I attended the informational presentation in Springfield, VT on February 13. I AM IN FAVOR OF THE TCI PLAN AND URGE THE GOVERNOR TO SUPPORT IT. From what I learned, if all 12 states of the region... read more I attended the informational presentation in Springfield, VT on February 13. I AM IN FAVOR OF THE TCI PLAN AND URGE THE GOVERNOR TO SUPPORT IT. From what I learned, if all 12 states of the region participate, it will represent 1/3 of the US population, and therefore have a sizable impact on reducing GGE from gas and diesel vehicles. Also, if we dont participate, we may be paying higher prices for fuel and not gaining the benefits of the cap and invest program that other states would be gaining. |
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2/14/2020 |
Leslie |
Goldman |
Citizen |
Bellows Falls |
Vermont |
I would urge Governor Scott to support the TCI.
The impacts of the climate crisis are getting more profound. We have a responsibility to our grandchildren to take meaningful action... read more I would urge Governor Scott to support the TCI.
The impacts of the climate crisis are getting more profound. We have a responsibility to our grandchildren to take meaningful action now. Joining with other states involved in TCI will reduce transportation emissions in a way that will keep us economically competitive with our neighboring states and create structures to to meet stricter goals than we would did not join. If we don’t join we will lose the economic benefits but we will continue to be in the same markets as states who are involved in TCI. Although Vermont actions such as increasing EV charging stations are important they would not have the same impact As joining TCI. |
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2/14/2020 |
Anne |
Dean |
Vermont resident |
Woodstock |
Vermont |
In Vermont, the transportation sector has the largest contribution to statewide greenhouse gas emissions. Many Vermonters must also drive long distances between their homes and their jobs, making... read more In Vermont, the transportation sector has the largest contribution to statewide greenhouse gas emissions. Many Vermonters must also drive long distances between their homes and their jobs, making affordable transportation a critical economic equity and social welfare issue. I strongly support the Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI) as a tool that can quickly reduce regional transportation GHG emissions. However, we must be careful to design TCI so as to make affordable, low-carbon transportation options available to rural citizens in the region. |
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2/14/2020 |
Cara |
Robechek |
Vermont Energy Education Program |
Montpelier |
Vermont |
Vermont Energy Education Program (VEEP) works with students and teachers from schools around Vermont. Young people around the state (our newest and soon-to-be voters) are worried about climate... read more Vermont Energy Education Program (VEEP) works with students and teachers from schools around Vermont. Young people around the state (our newest and soon-to-be voters) are worried about climate change and looking for positive action to reduce carbon emissions and increase resiliency. With 44% of Vermont's climate pollution coming from Transportation, it is clear to me, and to our youth, that we need to be making positive changes in our transportation system. I urge Vermont to participate in the Transportation and Climate Initiative.
Vermont needs new funding source to be able to create transportation that will work for all, including families and young people. Because it is regional, and it's burden on individual households is low, TCI is the best tool we have in the near future to provide this funding.
The RGGI model provides an excellent example of how this sort of programming can create a positive change for our state. As you know Vermont has been able to weatherize many, many more low and moderate income homes than would have been possible without RGGI's $2 million dollars each year. Similar strategic funding for transportation from a regional initiative would make a very noticeable difference for our transportation system.
Our young people are asking us to make real change on climate. They deserve to have programs like TCI put into place. New forward-thinking programming and action funded by TCI will make Vermont the kind of place where young people choose to stay to raise their families. |
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2/15/2020 |
John |
Cushman |
Upper Valley Network for Climate Action |
Norwich |
Vermont |
My name is John Cushman and I live in Norwich, Vermont. I’m writing to encourage you to produce a strong Transportation Climate Initiative memorandum of understanding so that our leaders in our... read more My name is John Cushman and I live in Norwich, Vermont. I’m writing to encourage you to produce a strong Transportation Climate Initiative memorandum of understanding so that our leaders in our state can use it as an effective, affordable and equitable tool to meet our science-based climate goals.
It is in the interest of Vermont’s citizens to reduce our own emissions of carbon dioxide to zero as rapidly as possible, as recommended and explained by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in keeping with the Paris Agreement. Doing so in a regional framework will maintain our state’s role as a leader. Not participating will turn us into a laggard.
Much of these emissions come from transportation, and while all economic sectors must share the commitment to action, the TCI, as a regional plan model thoughtfully on our experiences with electricity in the Northeast, is an economically sound way of doing so.
Not to participate would pose the risk that we Vermonters would pay part of the price of a regional market-based approach to capping pollution and investing the proceeds of allowance auctions.
Putting a price on carbon through a well designed cap-and-invest approach is economically rational because it drives the lowest cost solutions to the front of the line -- kind of like a car pool lane on a highway. Using the proceeds to pay for modern, efficient transportation infrastructure makes the most sense, and can be designed to protect the most vulnerable from unjust impacts.
Our state agencies can make this work.
For example, the Department of Public Health recently reported that we can save the lives of 2,000 Vermonters in the coming 30 years, and save more than $1 billion in health related costs, if in the coming 10 years we build up our fleet of electric vehicles, cut our solo car trips, and double our walking, biking and bus trips from ten years ago. Those are among the goals of our state’s comprehensive energy plan, and the TCI should be structured to help us meet them.
You should keep your ears and your minds open. Don’t focus on the special interest pleadings of the fossil fuel industry and the Koch brothers misinformation network. Remember, fossil energy is not cheap when you stop treating pollution like a freebie!
Instead, listen to real public interest groups! They want to make the TCI work -- to base it on peer reviewed science, to use the power of the marketplace for sound decisions, to build in a just transition for workers and people with less money, and to make Vermont a good neighbor.
And please keep the doors open to citizens. In Norwich we have voted to reverse our town’s carbon footprint. We have voted to incorporate climate action in every aspect of our town planning, including transportation. We have turned out on the street and in local meetings to demand action based on science. It’s the same in towns all over Vermont. Give us the tools!
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2/16/2020 |
Anne |
Damrosch |
Retired |
Burlington |
Vermont |
I strongly support TCI. Climate Change is the number one challenge for our times. if we don't address it, all other measures we take to improve the lives of the people of New England will be... read more I strongly support TCI. Climate Change is the number one challenge for our times. if we don't address it, all other measures we take to improve the lives of the people of New England will be for nothing. Future generations depend on us to take this action as one step forward.
Thank you,
Anne Damrosch |
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2/16/2020 |
Kieran |
Edraney |
Vermont Resident |
Burlington |
Vermont |
We need to make major moves if we're to act on climate change. Please don't punish my generation by failing to act. read more We need to make major moves if we're to act on climate change. Please don't punish my generation by failing to act. |
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2/16/2020 |
James |
Donegan |
None |
Hinesburg |
Vermont |
Governor Scott,
Please sign the TCI. We need to take action on climate change now! Governor Scott,
Please sign the TCI. We need to take action on climate change now! |
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2/17/2020 |
Jenn |
Wood |
VBSR |
GRAND ISLE |
Vermont |
The Road to Transformative Action: Transportation Climate Initiative before Rainy Day Funds
“There’s nothing like 40+ degrees and raining to say Happy Holidays in New England!”... read more The Road to Transformative Action: Transportation Climate Initiative before Rainy Day Funds
“There’s nothing like 40+ degrees and raining to say Happy Holidays in New England!” Sadly, it has been a recurring family greeting of late. As someone who loves the outdoors in all seasons with a special affinity (some say obsession) to snow and skiing, this weather makes me cringe, and honestly, fight back tears of sorrow.
Growing up low-income in a small rural town, I was never able to afford the true luxury of skiing. At the time, I did not know what I was missing. Regardless I was still fortunate to spend endless hours playing outside – blossoming my intrinsic connection to the rural landscape as well as my fascination for all creatures. I didn’t need all that ‘stuff’ we couldn’t afford.
Without going into too much detail, I’ll just say it was not always easy. However, I’ve learned and continually work to embrace the powerful notion that vulnerability is bravery. My experiences have driven me to find work as an advocate for the communities and natural environments of Vermont.
Part of my work includes serving on the Board of Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility (VBSR), a statewide, nonprofit business association whose mission centers on People, Planet, and Prosperity. After years taking action on climate in the energy efficiency and renewable energy sectors, I recently delved into the world of transportation, which makes up the majority of Vermont’s greenhouse gas emissions. Both energy expenditures as well as energy burden – or ones annual spending on energy as a percentage of income – for transportation, are higher in Vermont relative to money spent on thermal or electricity costs. Vermont is a rural state and people who live in rural communities have to drive farther to commute to work and school, for recreation, and for all of the regular daily tasks that are part of a full and vibrant life. Our long commutes mean higher household expenses and increased carbon emissions.
Rural public transportation can work, but there is no denying that it is a complex system in need of coordinated, systematic solutions – including providing viable clean transportation choices, affordably, to rural Vermonters. One opportunity for this comes from the Transportation Climate Initiative (TCI) – a chance to collaborate with up to 12 other northeastern and Mid-Atlantic States on a region-wide approach to make transportation cleaner and more accessible. TCI is a cap and invest system. Each participating state is afforded the flexibility to choose how to use the TCI revenues. In Vermont, we could support not only what we usually think about as transit, but innovative solutions to meet the mobility needs of ALL Vermonters, especially those in rural areas. This could include increased route frequency, more nimble services like on-call microtransit, smart growth planning, electrification, microgrids, and even rebates to help people get into cleaner, safer vehicles.
Moreover, TCI has the potential to help the very fabric of where I came from - low-income and rural towns - by shaping investments through a lens of equity and economic opportunity. As do too many Vermonters, I know what it is like to grow up hungry and/or with parents too proud to ask for help. When my older brother gave me rides in his car that had a completely rusted out floor where my feet were supposed to go, it was a bit scary but also kind of cool, then; still I was thankful merely having a ride!
With programs like TCI, we have an opportunity to do more than just business as usual. Vermonters deserve cleaner, safer, and more reliable transit options.
As a staunch climate advocate, I feel it critical to ensure that the most vulnerable are not left behind – particularly when they’re the least responsible for climate change yet bear the most burden, as we saw during Tropical Storm Irene. Equally, I feel it imperative for me to speak out as someone who has endured similar challenges. Many extremely loud voices are spreading extensive misinformation about how vulnerable populations will be most hurt by such a TCI framework. Again, it comes down to choices – in signing on we have an opportunity to design programs ensuring that rural, low-income Vermonters are not disproportionately disadvantaged as the goals of the initiative outline.
Shifting transportation in Vermont can’t be done with the flip of a switch. Like the water challenges we face here, we need a long but focused effort to transition a system that has developed over an expanse of time with significant financial contributions. So where do we start? Well, fervent action is needed now. TCI is by no means the complete answer as it will take time to implement and it will not sufficiently cover all transportation investment requirements. Vermont needs to start the engine of transformation to a cleaner, more accessible transportation system immediately by investing in all aspects of our transportation system – from buses, sidewalks and cleaner cars to supporting our downtowns, developing affordable housing in places where people can walk, and even wastewater infrastructure improvements to help our small villages thrive. Such actions will put Vermont ahead of the curve.
All of this requires a collective approach. Please join me in the statehouse and around the state in advocating for a future that is inclusive and healthy for all - humans, the environment, and other creatures alike. Let’s protect our winters, our magnificent landscape and ALL Vermonters so no one is left out in the rain.
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2/17/2020 |
Linda |
Gray |
Norwich Energy Committee (for identification purposes only) |
Norwich |
Vermont |
I support Vermont's participation in TCI. Transportation is a difficult sector to change, and a regional approach will be most effective.
* TCI can be structured to focus benefits on... read more I support Vermont's participation in TCI. Transportation is a difficult sector to change, and a regional approach will be most effective.
* TCI can be structured to focus benefits on those who need them most.
* This will create a funding source for local projects.
* The benefits of TCI, including public health benefits, exceed the costs.
* This market-based solution has broad support among economists.
* Climate science demands urgent action. |
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2/18/2020 |
Pamela |
Piper |
Norwich Congregational Church Climate Action Group |
Norwich |
Vermont |
My name is Pam Piper. I am a resident of Norwich and a member of the Norwich Congregational Church Climate Action Group.
Climate Change poses an ongoing and grave threat to the people and... read more My name is Pam Piper. I am a resident of Norwich and a member of the Norwich Congregational Church Climate Action Group.
Climate Change poses an ongoing and grave threat to the people and environments that form Vermont. We know that transportation is VT’s highest source of carbon emissions. I take that to heart everyday as I work to lower my carbon footprint; driving less and walking more, carpooling and maintaining my vehicle to maximize its fuel efficiency. I do this because it is the right thing to do. I also know that my individual actions alone cannot reverse rising CO2 levels.
As a citizen of this incredible state I see that we have an opportunity to do the “right thing” by joining in with the Transportation & Climate Initiative. It is an opportunity to tackle our high emission levels and to generate the funds necessary to implement transportation solutions that will benefit all Vermonters. This type of program is not new. RGGI, instituted in 2008, has proven to be successful in reducing carbon pollution and raising necessary funds to invest in important programs such as weatherization. As a recently retired child welfare worker it gives me great joy to volunteer in weatherization projects that make the homes of low-income Vermonters warmer and more energy efficient. The funding from RGGI enables this work to be done. We can do the same in the transportation sector with TCI.
At a recent informational meeting hosted by state agencies I was impressed by the work that has already gone into building the framework for TCI. Learning that all the “cap reduction” scenarios assessed, led to overall environmental, health and economic benefits, further convinced me that this is the right next step for VT. I understand that there is concern that this will simply be seen as a gas tax, but truth be told I’m willing to pay more when the outcomes are so critical and the long-term benefits, so far reaching.
I support our inclusion in TCI and believe that we can be a leader in tackling our transportation emissions. Being “at the table” with the other TCI states will allow us to do the right thing and I trust that we will be able to craft a VT product that treats all Vermonters equitably and creates a climate that we can thrive in.
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2/19/2020 |
Diana |
Bain |
Resident Voter |
Bridport |
Vermont |
I strongly urge you to move forward with a regional program that prioritizes the needs of communities overburdened with pollution and underserved in mobility options. We can cut poverty and... read more I strongly urge you to move forward with a regional program that prioritizes the needs of communities overburdened with pollution and underserved in mobility options. We can cut poverty and pollution at the same time! |
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2/19/2020 |
Deborah |
Martin |
Vermont Voter |
Norwich |
Vermont |
Dear Governor Scott,
Our nation has neglected climate change to the point of imminent crisis proportions. Our "brave little state" and every one of us needs to step up and change... read more Dear Governor Scott,
Our nation has neglected climate change to the point of imminent crisis proportions. Our "brave little state" and every one of us needs to step up and change the things we can. The TCI addresses 40% of our emissions and is a perfect place for you to start. Please, please, please do not follow Sununu's and trump's anti-environmental examples. Do not be just another spineless, Republican lackey. Vermont and Vermonters are counting on you.
Sincerely,
Deborah Martin
Norwich, Vermont |
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2/20/2020 |
Michael |
Green |
climate xchange |
Woodstock |
Vermont |
The business community understands the importance of taking action on climate change. This initiative creates the opportunity to invest in our local community transportation systems while also... read more The business community understands the importance of taking action on climate change. This initiative creates the opportunity to invest in our local community transportation systems while also addressing the climate crisis. Living in central Vermont, we have no access to public transportation. We have back-and-rides in almost all of our communities but nothing connecting them. In the winter, we have thousands of people driving each day between Rt 4, 100, and 107 between hotels ski resorts and different tourist destinations. We could alleviate the traffic, congestion in our small town, and restore our broken roads.
As a person living in a rural area, I think that TCI is extremely important. When states join TCI, they have the opportunity to invest in rural communities where transportation options are limited. Joining TCI would allow Vermont to ensure that rural communities aren’t left behind in the green transition and stuck behind the wheel of costly, inefficient vehicles. Our Governor should push for an ambitious TCI program so that rural communities like mine get the solutions they need. |
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2/21/2020 |
Colin |
Osborne |
Engineering Consulting |
Norwich |
Vermont |
Transportation uses are the predominant contributor to air pollution in north east USA. Deliberate, effective and immediate actions are needed by Federal, State an local bodies to reduce pollution... read more Transportation uses are the predominant contributor to air pollution in north east USA. Deliberate, effective and immediate actions are needed by Federal, State an local bodies to reduce pollution from all means of transportation. Some of the steps to be taken/continued include demanding increased miles per gallon for automobiles and trucks, trending towards electric vehicles as well as increased research and implementation for employing alternative energy approaches for transportation plus expanding public transportation (e.g. high speed trains). |
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2/21/2020 |
Kathleen |
Guinness |
Ms |
Poultney |
Vermont |
Our town is in need of a regular transportation system to outlying towns and to Rutland.It should be clean and efficient.We also need a charging station for electric vehicles and incentives to buy... read more Our town is in need of a regular transportation system to outlying towns and to Rutland.It should be clean and efficient.We also need a charging station for electric vehicles and incentives to buy EV's.People here drive long distances to work and play.Also needed are electric pick up trucks for the many self- employed here. |
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2/21/2020 |
Jerry |
Hickson |
Vermont |
Hartland |
Vermont |
I support the TCI proposal. Carbon-based fuels are accelerating the climate crisis and their use must be curtailed. Increasing the costs of fossil fuels will help reduce their use and is an... read more I support the TCI proposal. Carbon-based fuels are accelerating the climate crisis and their use must be curtailed. Increasing the costs of fossil fuels will help reduce their use and is an appropriate method of raising money for investments in better transportation. Since Vermont is a mostly-rural state our primary need is to replace gasoline and diesel vehicles with electric vehicles. Our distribution of houses and patterns of travel are not easily handled by mass transit except in a few regions. Incentives for individuals and companies to switch from fossil fuel cars to electric cars, more investments in charging stations and more investments in electric school and commuter buses are all needed. Commuter rail should be considered as an option on existing tracks. More bicycle paths should be created as a transportation option and also for recreation by both residents and our economically important visitors. |
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