GOING GREEN - ARE YOU IN?

INCREASED CONSERVATION EFFORTS EQUAL

      DECREASED CAPITAL EXPENDITURES

     Green efforts are sprouting up around the country and around our state.  Many municipalities have proposed comprehensive environmental policies defining their commitment to action.  As an environmentally conscious citizen, I firmly believe in the importance of sustainable communities.  If elected to Town Council, I will focus on initiatives that embrace the greening of Rocky Hill.  To this end, it is important that town government lead by example and create a culture of eco-friendly expectations at the town level, including, but not limited to, policies that require the effective use of energy and renewable energy sources; the reduction of environmental toxins; recycling; sustainable building/development; and water conservation.

     One of the easiest ways to reduce capital expenditures is to increase our commitment to the environment.  Did you know that replacing interior and exterior lighting fixtures and bulbs with energy efficient models saves energy and money?  Did you know a simple outdoor lighting code for municipal and commercial buildings can reduce energy consumption and costs associated with keeping public areas lighted at night?  Did you know green roofs on these same buildings can help reduce heat loss and dramatically reduce heat gain?  All things we should be considering especially when it comes to new construction projects.  Did you know that harnessing "greywater" and rainwater can reduce overall water use costs?  Finally, did you know that that community gardens help preserve open space and can reduce maintenance costs, or that backyard composting can save much needed tax dollars by reducing the cost of recycling programs?

     These are but a few examples of small changes that have been shown to have a big impact on local sustainability, while at the same time, help in the reduction of spending.  When it comes to saving money, every little step counts.  It's important that we, as a community, remain cognizant of the fact that the choices we make today resonate through generations to come.  It's Time for Change.  Are you in?