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An open letter to neighbors in Milton

January 10, 2014

Dear neighbors all across Milton, I’m writing briefly on what has surprisingly become a bit of a hot-button issue.  As for me, when it comes to putting solar panels on my house, it’s not a question of “if” but rather “when.” The companies from whom I’ve solicited information all indicated in their sales pitch, “Solar increases your home’s value.”  Not only do I believe this to be true, but personally, I can’t think for a minute that folks anywhere would be unaware of the probable increase in the value of their home after adding solar panels.  More than just an energy source switch, I see it as a major home improvement.

Regardless of how I see it, neighbors, on this subject and as of today, Milton’s ordinances allow for the town to tax properties on such an increase in value.  Our town may want to rethink this, and perhaps citizens who feel strongly about this matter - anyone? - will take it up with town government.  They may even want to work toward a referendum on Milton going greener despite the town not getting the added revenue.

Apart from solar panels and setting any and all political issues aside, I want to take this opportunity in this still new year to thank the many people who have thanked me time and again and over a number of years now, for starting the information sharing email list and civic action group Neighborhoods of Milton United.  The ongoing effort from many folks to help make Milton an informed and ever more vibrant community is appreciated and again, thank you.  Certainly the underlying message that is shared from one neighbor to the next, that we are all in this together as we work to move our town forward and in a positive manner remains a message to which hopefully, more and more will ascribe.  I just wish I could do more. And as regards those folks who keep asking me, “When are you going to run for office, Jeff,” who knows?  One day I may have the option of putting my hat in the ring or serving on a town committee.  However, that time will come when I find myself not only willing and ready, but also able.  At this time and with regret, it is the able part that keeps me from serving further.  Of course and as always, I urge folks to keep attending town council and committee meetings as they do their part to stay informed.

In closing, I’d like to share some very straightforward advice imparted to me when I first moved to Milton some years back and here it is: “It isn’t difficult to live in a small town. The first ingredient is easy - be nice.”

Jeff Dailey
Milton

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