Town Board takes a forward looking position

To the editor:

Recently, the town of Chatham Town Board took a forward-looking position on climate change by endorsing the Columbia County Environmental Management Council’s resolution in support of a carbon fee and divdend. The town board is to be commended for their action.

Some will argue that carbon fees are just another tax. However, since the fees would be returned to taxpayers, the net effect on most of us would be neutral. (Since low-income households typically have a small “carbon footprint,” their monthly payment would exceed their costs, while those with two or more residences and multiple vehicles would see somewhat higher costs).

Support for carbon fees come from a broad audience including some in the oil industry. Go to the Shell website to read their position regarding carbon pricing.

My wife and I have lived in Columbia county for more than 45 years. We love both the community and the beautiful land we live on. Addressing climate change now is perhaps the most important legacy society can leave. We thank the Chatham Town Board for taking one important step to secure a livable environment for our grandchildren. We encourage the other towns in the county to do the same.

Don Hegeman

Chatham Center