Yesterday’s election had the usual results here in the “state” of Washington. Crazy monsters and crazy referenda won. With one beautiful exception!
Referendum 2066 to protect natural gas from the crazies PASSED. Somewhat narrowly, but still enough to settle the issue.
From the official description:
The measure prohibits state and local governments from restricting access to natural gas;
prohibits the state building code council from discouraging or penalizing the use of natural gas in any building;
requires gas companies to provide natural gas to any person or corporation even if other energy services or energy sources may be available;
and prohibits the Utilities and Transportation Commission from approving any multiyear rate plan requiring or incentivizing termination of natural gas service.
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Seems to cover all the bases, and I don’t see any poison pills. All good, and astonishingly it passed. The building code provision is especially important. The code enforcers are the most committed Gaians, with the power to stop new construction and ruin lives at will.
I’m sure Manweller’s Rule will take effect, and the “government” will find ways to do crazy shit anyway, but it’s nice to know that even crazy Seattle doesn’t want to give up a clean source of energy that heats and cooks for most citizens of the state.
Avista seemed to be confident of this result. Two years ago they finally installed natural gas in this neighborhood, and about half of the houses use it now. I doubt they would have spent the money if they were sure the craziness would win.
Polistra's Mill 