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Rate hike opposed

To the Journal editor:

My purpose in writing is to address the probable rate increase in electric rates from our cooperative, Cloverland Electric.

I am certainly not happy about the huge increase in rates but I take issue with those who are holding our utility accountable for it. If our cooperative is culpable in any way, it is their lack of communication to inform the members of an election outcome that was so totally obvious.

During his campaign prior to the 2008 election, Obama made his plan for the eradication of coal fired generation completely clear to anyone taking the time to listen. Here is a direct quote: “[I]f somebody wants to build a coal-powered plant, they can. It’s just that it will bankrupt them, and electricity rates will necessarily skyrocket.” Under his direction the EPA has placed egregious regulations on existing coal plants and WE are paying the price.

He is not finished with his agenda yet! Within the last few days the Obama Administration took aim at the coal industry by mandating a 30 percent cut in carbon emissions at fossil fuel-burning power plants by 2030 – in spite of claims the regulation will cost nearly a quarter-million jobs a year and force plants across the country to close.

Our cooperative utility had just two choices – shut down the Presque Isle plant or comply with the Obama administration’s regulations. In the short term, unless we all go back to candles and oil lamps, shutting down was not an option. So, we have to pay the cost for meeting the new regulations.

Elections have consequences and this is a costly one. Cloverland starting the reaction dance at the eleventh hour is unacceptable.

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