HomeMy WebLinkAbout9/3/2019 Item 18, Watson
From:Strowbridge Watson <
To:E-mail Council Website
Subject:Phasing Out Natural Gas Appliances
To the SLO City Coucil;
I am a cal poly student who was born in San Luis Obispo, and finding ways to combat climate change is at the top of my
priorities. In order to mitigate the destructive impact that climate change will have on my life, we need aggressive
action, and we need it now. Citizens of San Luis Obispo share this sentiment, which is why I am expressing my adamant
support of the plan to implement all electric appliances within new buildings.
Costs:
SoCalGas has proposed rate increases that will raise the price of gas 45 percent over the next three years. Keeping the
norm will be a gamble with the wallets of citizens that SoCal gas will not change its rates.
Long Term:
California is leading the charge in our ambitious switch to all renewable/clean energy by 2045. Preparing us for a
decarbonized future today will make this transition smoother
Collaboration:
This move would not be unprecedented, the City of Berkeley is poised to make the first move towards the goal of gas
free appliances. Collaboration between cities could provide us the opportunity to learn how to economically optimize
this transition.
With that being said, I will leave you with a quote from the Sierra Club’s Rachel Golden regarding the matter: “New all-
electric buildings that can efficiently powered by clean energy is an essential step to improving housing affordability,
clean air, safety, and climate resiliency. Cities across California are leading a clean energy movement that will transform
our communities and inspire the state to take action in line with climate change”
Unfortunately I will not be in town for when this matter is being discussed. I hope you will consider the long term
benefits of this plan, and be a true leader in the face of our changing climate.
Sincerely,
Strowbridge Watson
Strowbridge Francisco Watson
President, Industrial Technology Society
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Smart Machine Intern, Royal Industrial Solutions (Automation Solutions Group)
California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo
Input | Strategic | Ideation | Learner | Analytical
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