The Yadkin Valley Chamber of Commerce voted to rescind their support of Fibrowatt and I applaud them for making that decision. But, keep in mind, they did it because 96 percent of the chamber members surveyed said they were against the incinerator and the withdrawal of support was demanded. Without Dr. Wells’ survey, this action would not have been taken. And while they agreed to withdraw support, they still have not taken a stand against Fibrowatt.

The Surry County Commissioners voted to rescind financial support and I applaud them for that decision also. Then again, County Board Chairman Paul Johnson said “that the decision by the board was not made in an effort to slam the door on Fibrowatt, but to spur the company to action.” In other words, come wine and dine the community just as you have wined and dined us. Surry County Commissioner Bill Hamlin said, “He still thought the plant would be a good thing for the county....”

Commissioner Jim Harrell Jr. said, “The commissioners don’t have the responsibility or the education or the knowledge to explain those things (health and environmental issues) to the community.”

I take exception with that. It was their responsibility to research this incinerator. And if they had, they would have found it wasn’t in line with the community’s best interest. They had the responsibility to become educated and knowledgeable before they agreed to it.

What do you think their job is as commissioners? I can’t count the number of times I have heard a board member say they “did their due diligence.” Evidently not. If they can’t do a proper job, then perhaps they shouldn’t have the job nor any other government spot where decision making will negatively impact on quality of life.

In summary, don’t let your guard down. The chamber can change their vote. The financial incentives can be reinstated. Continue to lodge protests, continue to write letters, continue to make calls and continue to attend meetings. Remember: Snooze and you loose. We all loose,

Linda Williams

State Road