What are your sustainability goals for Simsbury? (please limit your answer to 250 words)
I would like to see Simsbury rely on sustainable and energy responsible sources for town buildings and vehicles as much as possible without creating a tax burn to the community. Utilizing and capturing solar energy for our town and residences would move us towards a more sustainable community. Increasing our renewable energy sources and usage to 20% is reasonable.
Currently, our town and school buildings heat with fossil fuels (e.g., natural gas and oil). What plans do you have to transition them from fossil fuels to renewable sources? (please limit your answer to 250 words)
Look for grant opportunities for solar energy uses and installations for Buildings to minimize the usage of fossil fuels.
What plans do you have to transition our town and school fleet of cars, trucks, and school buses to electric vehicles? (please limit your answer to 250 words)
The usage of electric vehicles is not widely used currently and is costly to purchase and maintain so this would need to be implemented carefully and thoughtfully to add to our fleet without adding too large a cost and tax burden to the residents. Additionally, I would need further information on battery life especially in emergency vehicles.
What regulations would you recommend for new housing and commercial developments to reduce carbon emissions? (please limit your answer to 250 words)
I would like to see a requirement for new housing and commercial developments utilize solar panels and commercial developments provide electric charging stations for the electric vehicles.
What would you do to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy in private homes and businesses in Simsbury?
I would look at incentives to homeowners for solar panels and energy efficient vehicles and appliances. Continue to promote the benefits of renewable and sustainable energy usage and sources. Promote through social media.