August 9, 2008

BENTON COUNTY & ENERGY A SHORT TERM SOLUTION

The lack of a U.S. Energy Policy has far reaching implications for Benton County.

In our 45-mile-long county we have nearly 400 miles of roads and a population of 16,800. We have historically been, and remain, one of the least populated areas of the state. Understanding who we are will help us address this issue.

We all realize that the price of fuel ripples throughout the entire economy and the smallest provocation in or near an oil producer causes the price of fuel to quickly rise. Thus, spikes in the price of GASOLINE are now a way of life. Normally the issue of the lack of transportation in a rural community would never surface much less be discussed. However, the reality of the world today compels us, a rural community, to develop an emergency short-term plan. We have to be prepared if we awaken tomorrow to $10.00 a gallon for gasoline. We must create this plan to assist the citizens of Benton County especially those who are elderly, live on a fixed income or earn minimum wage.

SHORT TERM PLAN(Proposed)
90 days (Outline)

MISSION STATEMENT

Meet the needs of our citizens and minimize the impact on our local economy by assisting in meeting the short-term transportation needs of Benton County’s workforce.

ACTIVATION (Proposed implementation time of two weeks)

The plan would go into effect when the price of gasoline doubles at the pump.

INFORMATION REQUIRED

Work with the Ministerial Alliance to work out a plan with area church to use vans.
Utilize North West Tennessee Rural Transportation for wheelchair requirements.
Hold community meetings to determine interest and level of need (i.e. getting children to day care, etc.)
Seek input from employers to determine impact/feasibility of flex hours for employees, business hours, etc.
Determine government action (waivers) (insurance)
Seek to use school buses and their valuable routes

I know the people of Benton County are always ready to help. If we have a plan we can put this generosity to work in the fastest, most effective way possible for our community.

These are my thoughts. I look forward to your input. This will only work if we are all in this together.

Henry Berry