A reader writes in
Michael J. Ruffu
Downbeach Coalition Chairman
Commissioner Fitzpatrick’s unwavering support for offshore wind development is troubling for Atlantic County. Her claims about the economic benefits of this project are not aligned with the true cost to our community if our pristine coastline is industrialized.
The commissioner relies on speculative economic benefits in her support for offshore wind, such as an estimated $4.7 billion injected into the local economy and 10,000 new jobs. But she ignores the risk of billions of dollars in lost tourism revenue and massive disruptions to our vital commercial fishing industry if hundreds of 1,300 feet tall turbines are installed along our coast. Additionally, jobs that were promised to New Jersey workers have already been outsourced to foreign labor. And to add insult to injury, tax credits meant for New Jersey ratepayers were given back to Orsted through a controversial legislative “bailout”, which the commissioner has openly endorsed.
Furthermore, and perhaps more troubling, when confronted with the probability that energy bills could increase after the wind farms begin operating, the commissioner stated she would be happy to pay the higher bills. I doubt her constituents share that sentiment. Finally, economics aside, the commissioner refuses to connect preliminary testing during the initial stage of development to the detrimental impact on marine life we are all witnessing.
What we need is a balanced approach that puts Atlantic County first, not ideological adherence to a national green agenda. Offshore wind proponents must address local concerns over tourism, jobs, environmental impacts and consumer costs. If Commissioner Fitzpatrick cannot adequately represent her constituents, perhaps it’s time to reconsider her role.
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