The VWC Environmental Committee proposal that would have PG&E raise baseline rates in the San Lorenzo Valley to help make electric heat more affordable, and thus reduce the use of wood stoves that are currently producing severe particulate pollution, was presented to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) by Supervisor Bruce McPherson in a letter based on information we supplied. Rather quickly there was a written response from Stephanie Greene, Supervisor/Business and Community Outreach, of the CPUC. The letter basically indicates the process by which that change can be realized. So we are hopeful!! Supervisor McPherson’s office is following up and we are reaching out to our State elected officials for their support, as well as the Air Pollution Control District, the Fire Departments, local business associations and local residents.

Photo by Bill Lewin, 2013