Posted by: Kate Ellis in event, coal, clean energy, action on Jun 25, 2009
The Elk River Municipal Utility is considering buying into the Big Stone II coal-fired power plant proposed to be built near Milbank, South Dakota (learn more about Big Stone II). Even though utilities and states across the nation are abandoning plans for coal plants--power plants that will pollute and create unstable rates for consumers for 40-50 years-backers of Big Stone II continue down this uneconomic and environmentally irresponsible path.
Elk River took an early lead in seeking better energy options by earning an Energy City designation in 1997. This progress should not be undermined by buying into this backward-looking, obsolete form of energy.
Just a couple years ago, Owatonna, as part of Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA), faced the same decision. The city decided that it wanted to invest in clean, renewable energy and efficiency instead of Big Stone II. Check out this short video about how Owatonna has benefitted from investing in efficiency and clean energy instead of a new coal plant.
The Elk River City Council and Municipal Utility needs to hear from concerned citizens! A meeting is scheduled to discuss purchasing a portion of Big Stone II's dirty coal energy for the area residents.
Monday June 29th - 5:30 pm
Elk River City Hall - Uppertown Conference Room
13065Orono Parkway, Elk River
Directions (pdf)
Make your voice heard--easy ways to get involved!
- Attend the City Council Meeting and speak against purchasing dirty power from Big Stone II-tell the City Council and Municipal Utility that you want clean, renewable energy and you want to keep Elk River an Energy City.
- Contact members of the Elk River City Council to oppose participation in Big Stone II. Contact information for the mayor and city council members is below.
- Forward this action alert to your friends and neighbors who care about clean, renewable energy for Elk River's residents!
Contact information:
Stephanie Klinzing-Mayor
Phone: 763.441.2210
Email: mayorer@q.com
Nick Zerwas-Ward 1
Phone: 763. 635.1005
Email: nick.zerwas@ci.elk-river.mn.us
Matt Westgaard-Ward 3
Phone: 763.241.0769
Email: westgaard@nsatel.net
Jerry Gumphrey-Ward 2
Phone: 763.257.9189
Email: iwgump@yahoo.com
Paul Motin-Ward 4
Phone: 763.241.0592
Email: pmotin@aol.com
