Our children and grandchildren cannot wait until 2050 to break free from the gas pipeline system that is pumping out dirty methane gas.
Based on the docket items in the June 18 Public Facilities Committee agenda, we expected the meeting to include “a discussion of
- (a) a plan to more effectively reduce methane gas leaks in the city and
- (b) how to best coordinate with National Grid regarding the transition away from methane gas to electric heating and cooling solutions.”
The discussion was also supposed to include a discussion of “a current residential initiative to electrify a portion of Garland Rd., Floral St., and Floral Place” and possibly “recommendations of additional locations and actions.”
However, National Grid and Eversource dominated more than two hours of the meeting with a lot of smoke and mirrors. Their slides were wordy and confusing. We question if they are really committed to moving forward with identifying sections of pipes to transition to non-pipeline alternatives and electrification. We understand that our infrastructure is complex and planning and coordination are necessary, and we’re glad to see this is beginning to happen, but there was no plan except to come up with a plan. (NewTV video)
Now, we need them to do better and do it faster. The best and safest gas system is no gas system.
Melanie Renaud & Cindy Callaway
Mothers Out Front – Newton
