New Times / Letters to the Editor

We do need nuclear power

Charlee Smith - Templeton

Andrew Christie states in his letter on May 9 that nuclear power “has made too many promises it has failed to keep” (“Our answer: Nuclear is dangerous and unnecessary”). This is true, but it doesn’t negate the fact that nuclear power is still needed in our energy future. NASA’s James Hansen, the father of Global Warming, along with our local climate change expert Dr. Ray Weymann, are both proponents of building more nuclear plants. It’s time for the Sierra Club to get its head out of the sand. By quoting Mr. Lovins claim that “existing technologies for more efficient end-use can save three-fourths of U.S. electricity,” you are just creating another failed promise. When our cars become primarily electric powered, we will need even more electricity.

David Deick’s original opinion piece (April 25) was a little over the top in its promotion of nuclear power, but it was filled with many relevant facts. His blaming primarily Big Oil for the current opposition to nuclear power, however, was way off base.

Elect this problem solver!

Pat Harris - San Luis Obispo

I am an enthusiastic supporter of Carlyn Christianson for City Council. I have known Carlyn for more than 20 years as a colleague and a friend. Carlyn’s experience and knowledge of planning issues is formidable, but it’s not the only thing that makes her the best candidate for City Council.

Carlyn is a strong person and will speak up for what she believes in, without alienating those who disagree with her. The current council is deeply divided and stuck in gridlock. Carlyn is the perfect person to sit down at the table and get things moving again. She has never been in lock-step with anyone. She will speak up and vote to do what’s right for the environment, for local businesses, for the homeless population, and for all the people of San Luis Obispo.

Carlyn Christianson is not an ideologue—she is a practical problem solver with a clear vision for the future of San Luis Obispo. That vision includes open space, clean industry, healthy neighborhoods, and a prosperous downtown. I urge you to vote for Carlyn and vote for that future.

I'm supporting Christianson by mail

Jeff Aranguena - San Luis Obispo

The mail-in ballots for the City Council special election will be arriving in SLO voters’ mailboxes. I am supporting Carlyn Christianson. I believe Carlyn to be an independent thinker who considers all sides of any issue. Her background proves she is extremely capable of taking the lead on a variety of issues, and works in a collaborative manner with colleagues and residents, in a positive way.

Carlyn also has the temperament that is desperately needed to help the council approach its serious tasks of governing without pettiness, favoritism, or retribution. We deserve the best in San Luis Obispo, and I believe with the options that will be on the ballot for voters this election, Carlyn Christianson is the most sincere, positive, and well-rounded  candidate.