I have promised a fresh perspective if elected to the Pawling Town Board. By way of one example, I am pleased to introduce my green initiative for the Pawling/Holmes community! My team has researched other Hudson Valley community initiatives and while our success would require participation from both the public and private sectors, I would be enthusiastic about leading the charge. The town has already implemented measures such as converting to LED lighting in public spaces. I applaud the village for taking the bold step of installing charging stations for electric vehicles. We can do much more given the potential benefits, which are detailed below . . .

BENEFITS:

Reduce Pawling/Holmes Carbon Footprint through:
- Exploration of wind and solar energy alternatives
- Support current efforts of Pawling Community Foundation to improve Lakeside and Murrow Parks with no taxpayer money
- Work with the state to explore grants and funding to promote green energy
- Collaborate with Dutchess County’s existing green initiative
- Work with the Pawling Village and Chamber of Commerce to implement specific green initiatives (noted below)
- Work with Town and Village Planning Boards in exploring “green” building incentives
Reduce Energy Costs
- Town and village building energy expenses could be reduced using green alternatives
- Residents can learn and consider taking advantage of similar energy alternatives
- Explore wind/solar farms for reducing costs
Boost Eco-Tourism
- Our beautiful community is already a destination for nature lovers. The Appalachian Trail is one shining example. Going green will provide an even greater appeal.
- Receive positive media coverage for being a leader in the Hudson Valley on “going green.”
Community:
- Generate civic pride through a collaborative effort of protecting our environment for future generations.
- A cause everyone can get behind: School children, seniors, local businesses, residents.
- Health benefits from reducing our carbon footprint.

SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES COULD INCLUDE:

Learning about alternative energy sources from experts including:
- Wind energy (already permitted in Town Code)
- Solar energy (creation of a Pawling Solar Park or joining an existing one)
- Cost-efficient public and private lighting options
Educational events at the library on reducing our carbon footprint
Chamber-sponsored reusable shopping bags, sandwich wraps
Compost Pile at the Transfer Station
Community Gardens
Clearly marked blue recycle receptacles throughout the village
School activities raising awareness of litter (“Give a hoot, don’t pollute”) and “reduce, reuse, recycle” activities

I am seeking community input on these ideas and would greatly appreciate your

response to a two-quesiton survey on Facebook: CLICK HERE TO PARTICIPATE

LINKS TO ARTICLES:

COLEEN