I’ve read with curiosity the article about the city council adopting the stricter energy code (Herald, Dec. 6). Curious, because I attended the same meeting and came away with a different point of view.
What I witnessed and heard were good comments on both sides of the issue by several well-informed individuals. Those that want to see the stricter energy code adopted reminded us that doing so wouldn’t cost much and it would help save the planet. Plus, a real bonus for the stricter regulations is the investment returns homebuyers will gain by spending more up front.
What I also heard was the concern by many that the unknown increased costs of compliance will keep many families from realizing the American dream of owning their own home in Durango. Several speakers tried to make the point that qualifying for an affordable home today was more important to most folks than saving the planet and long term investment returns.
Representatives of the homebuilders offered to sit down with county and city officials to work out a plan to balance the needs for affordable housing and the needs for energy conservation.
Nope. It was obvious that two members of the council had their minds made up before the meeting. Two more were genuinely concerned about the unintended consequences of adopting this much stricter code and wanted to take a more measured approach.
What I witnessed was that council had an opportunity to do something about affordable housing in Durango and they didn’t.
Que lastima!
Tim Gallagher
Hesperus
