Sarita Austin
DemocraticQ1 What policies, if any, do you support or envision in managing land-based resources in Vermont (i.e. water, open-space preserves, parks)?
“Act 250 (1970) is a major piece of of Legislation in VT that requires major development address certain criteria regarding the impacts as a result of the construction and final project.The criteria looks at:water quality,impact on soils(ag and forest),wildlife habitat,energy consumption,impact on traffic,schools,air quality,growth patterns,air quality and other environmental factors. Current use/UVA-Reduces property taxes for land owners if they agree to conserve their land for ad and/or forrest purposes.”
KEYWORDS: Stewardship Natural Resources Protection
Q2 Natural resources and the natural environment in Vermont contribute to tourism, public health, agriculture, and manufacturing production. What policies, if any, do you support that could contribute to environmental stewardship, environmental research, or environmental protections in Vermont?
“As above,Act 250. In addition Act 181 also addresses land management,additional protections of our most vulnerable natural habitat,smart growth,sustainable development,and land stewardship. Local Town Plans and Development Regulations, where public engagement is very important, also informs how and where growth should occur in order to achieve an intentional,balanced and sustainable outcome.”
KEYWORDS: Smart Growth Affordable Sustainable
Q3 Vermont is facing growing flood risk, reduced snowpack, and altered forest composition. What policies, if any, do you support in addressing how natural disasters are affecting industries and life in Vermont?
“I wouldn’t call them “ natural disasters “ I would argue they are “man made disasters “ as a result of human consumption and reliance on fossil fuels. Vermont has had increased droughts,flooding,and changing weather patterns.The droughts are having an impact on our agriculture economy and the floods are causing destruction of buildings in our communities that (historically) built homes,factories,and farms next to rivers. Vermont policies addressing disaster response and prevention are spread across our statues: Where/how/when housing construction can occur, Dam Safety, Flood Response, Wetland Management and Protection,Best Practices for Economic Growth and Environmental Protection”
KEYWORDS: Regulatory Structure Accountability Data Driven
Q4 Advances in artificial intelligence and expansion of data centers are expected to affect industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, education, and transportation across the country. What policies, if any, do you plan to implement to address these potential impacts in Vermont?
“Re-Introduce H.727-Vermont Data Center Act next session for data centers that will have a 20MW or above capacity. Address concerns: What is not regulated in Act 250 to address concerns of Vermonters regarding data centers protections. Additional land and water use protections. Additional roles and responsibilities for the PUC, Department of Public Service,and ANR. Add a section to Act 250 to specifically address gaps regarding the building,operations,oversight,and public safely concerns. Assure protections for Vermonter’s health,safety,quality of life,economy,and future anticipated and unanticipated outcomes”
KEYWORDS: Slow Down
Q5 Electricity demand is increasing due to manufacturing, electrification, and data infrastructure. What role, if any, do you believe developing alternative energy sources should contribute to the country’s future energy mix? What plans, if any, do you have to develop these alternative energy sources in Vermont, and how might they affect job opportunities in the state (if at all)?
“Under this current administration encouraging and funding alternative energy sources/solutions is not a priority.As a member of the VT Climate Caucus (if re-elected) I will work with the Caucus to introduce legislation that will realistically address how to transition to renewable energy sources that are affordable,reliable,cost saving,and sustainable. At gas and diesel prices are skyrocketing Vermonters may be receptive to alternative fuel sources (electricity). Vermont and the US needs to seriously invest in building out our current infrastructure in order to carry the load of current and emerging sources of renewables”
KEYWORDS: Renewable Alternative Essential