SIERRA

     We have been looking forward to the Fall not only for the cooler weather, but also the opportunity to get on with our issues and getting together to enjoy the out doors.

     Our priorities for this fall are: resisting sprawl, encouraging the use of alternative forms of energy and energy conservation.

     We no longer can afford building just everywhere. The cost of infrastructure and its maintenance is beyond what we can afford. I can think of no benefits of development without the proper planning for necessary services and facilities. The cost of the services such as roads, water, sanitation, trash service, police and fire protection and schools is just weighing us down.

     Being connected with our neighbors is very important. It gives us a strong sense of community. If there ever was a time when we needed a sense of community now is that time. Hurricanes, terrorist attacks, crime and many of our other problems can be much better addressed if we all have a sense that we belong and are a part of our neighborhood. We need not only to resist sprawl, but also be for better designed communities.

     Our second main priority is encouraging energy conservation and the development and use of alternative sources of energy.

     The current turmoil and the threat to our national financial stability are mainly attributable to our inability to move away from a petroleum based economy. I suspect that a great deal of energy could be saved through conservation. So many lights are on at night that are not absolutely necessary. In addition, planning trips by car could also provide considerable energy and cost savings. I know that this requires an effort; IÕve tried in the past. It is not easy. It is probably a lot like giving up smoking or sticking to a diet, but is necessary that we continue to make progress.

     To help us get started this fall the Virginia Chapter of the Sierra Club is making a special presentation on Smart Growth and Alternative Sources of Energy.

Fred Adams [Click to email comments, or call 467-2775.]