To the editor:
We are at a pivotal point in our existence on this planet. Our unsustainable lifestyles are having a major impact on the earth and causing changes to our climate on a level never seen before in history. Addressing climate change is not a partisan issue; it affects each and every one of us, regardless of political party. In addition to the effects on other species, human accelerated climate change is damaging our air quality, the safety of our food and water. If we don’t take bold steps to change our behavior, we will be leaving future generations with big problems.
Unfortunately, at a time when we need the federal government to lead our fight against climate change, we are faced with an administration that is seeking to decimate the EPA, the very agency that was set up to protect the environment. As concerned citizens, many of us have been reaching out to our elected members of Congress to take bold stands in this fight, but are seeing votes cast to support the party, not the environment.
Luckily, we live in a state that is taking strong environmental initiatives. In fact, New York state has set a goal of having 50 percent of its energy come from renewable resources by 2030, and the increased use of solar energy is helping us achieve that goal. How are we doing our part at the town level?
Shockingly, the town of Lysander, on Feb. 16, voted unanimously to “opt out” of Section 487 of the NYS Real Property Tax Law. This law is intended to encourage and incentivize property owners to invest their money to install solar energy by exempting them from paying taxes for 15 years on any increase in assessment on their home due to the modifications.
At a recent meeting of the town board, the tax assessor reported that this tax exemption has a negligible effect on the town’s tax revenue. Why then, did the town board decide to opt out? In a letter to the editor in the Messenger a few weeks ago, Town Councilor Bob Geraci claimed he felt it was about “equity,” a broad claim with no clear explanation. Unfortunately, Mr. Geraci was not at the most recent town board meeting to answer questions about his letter. If renewable energy decreases our dependence on foreign oil, lowers air and water pollution and positively affects public health, doesn’t everyone win? Shouldn’t we be encouraging people to invest in the future of their children and their community?
Apparently, the Lysander Town Board says, no, and has made Lysander the only town in Onondaga County to deny this incentive. As self-proclaimed environmentalists, who like to “walk in the woods” and “plant trees,” they should re-think this short-sighted decision. We need to identify ways that we can improve our environment and protect it so that our children and grandchildren can walk and enjoy the woods, too. Lysander needs to opt back in.
Jamie S. Bodenlos
Baldwinsville
