BRATTLEBORO — The town of Brattleboro has $10,000 budgeted for an energy coordinator, but the position has not been filled since July 1. This is unacceptable.
An energy coordinator could leverage the initial $10,000 to obtain grants and direct a big-picture approach that helps the town reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and grow the renewable-energy economy, all of which would save money while reducing carbon emissions.
For example, the coordinator could:
• connect Brattleboro residents with existing resources and incentives for undertaking energy-saving measures.
• support sustainable transportation initiatives for ride sharing and bike lanes.
• incentivize regenerative agriculture practices to trap carbon in the soil.
We are climate activists and members of the climate action group 350 Brattleboro; we feel strongly that the town should exercise leadership and show its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint by immediately filling the open energy coordinator position.