Solution to gas prices: Let's get together and buy alternative fuels

Letters to Editor
May 6, 2008

Comments Print Email

I had lunch yesterday with a buddy of mine who told me he had just paid more than $100 to fill up his gas tank. This had never happened before.

He is a local repair and remodel contractor who depends on his truck to make a living.

It is not a problem unique to my friend.

I have a gateway idea to a solution for the high gas prices locally. I propose that collectively we begin to open a dialogue about a community biodiesel and ethanol plant to serve the fuel needs of the citizens of Greeley.

The cost to produce is roughly $1 per gallon. Citizens with zip codes 80631 and 80634 would pay 50 cents per gallon higher than the cost to produce.

The proceeds from the sale of community-produced fuel could go to promote the quality of life in Greeley. There would be no more talk of privatizing our local golf courses and our fabulous ice arena. Libraries and roads could get the attention they deserve.

Local property values would skyrocket as citizens from other communities would relocate to Greeley to enjoy the benefits of locally produced fuel for their cars and trucks. The added community amenities would also attract new citizens and businesses.

Greeley would be able to embrace the agricultural history that has made this town great.

Instead of increasing the number of meat processing plants and feedlots, Greeley should use its location, cost-effectiveness and agriculture strength to lead the nation in alternative energy evolution.

The only folks who lose with the implementation of my idea are the very few who are making incredible profits off "We the people."

Why not, at least, have an open dialogue about this idea or a variation of it?

Brett Holland, Windsor