“Energy policy is going to be critical to the town’s future,” said Arn. “If we do it right, we can not only save the taxpayers money and protect the environment, but also bring new jobs and tax revenues into Vernon.” In addition to the direct EECBG grant, Vernon would be eligible for regional bonus grants if we could partner with one or more other towns and put together a proposal by October 15.

 Both the direct EECBG proposal and the competitive regional bonus plans must meet specific federal criteria to be eligible for funding, and careful planning will be required to ensure Vernon leverages these grants for the maximum long-term benefit. At a recent multi-town meeting in Vernon, current mayor Jason McCoy said he would be meeting with “his staff,” but to date no public hearings or Energy Efficiency Committee meetings are scheduled. “Someone should be asking the public what they want,” said Arn, “and if the administration won’t, the Democrats will. Residents who have ideas about how they’d like to see Vernon implement energy conservation and efficiency measures should e-mail me at michele@vernondemocrats.com. Also, let me know if you’d be interested in attending a public meeting on this topic.”