Downing Supports Fuel-Efficiency Measure

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BOSTON - State Sen. Benjamin B. Downing, D-Pittsfield, has signaled his continued support policies to promote clean air and other environmental benefits by co-sponsoring a bill drafted by Rep. Frank I. Smizik, D-Brookline, that would reduce motor vehicle emissions. "Vehicles are a primary source of greenhouse gas emissions. Much of the responsibility to respond to mounting environmental concerns has rested with state and local entities," said Downing in a statement. "This proposal is a sound package that includes economic incentives for consumers to purchase vehicles with higher fuel efficiency standards, and I am happy to lend my support." "An Act to Promote the Reduction of Green House Gas Emissions and to Reduce the Use of Fossil Fuels for Vehicles in the Commonwealth" includes a so-called "feebate." A combination of a fee and a rebate, the idea is a basic carrot-and-stick approach to encourage drivers to purchase more fuel-efficient vehicles. As defined in the bill, feebates are rebates for cars with good fuel efficiency, and fees or surcharges for cars with poor fuel efficiency. The legislation determines the fee or rebate as a percentage of the manufacturer's suggested retail price assigned based on the vehicle's greenhouse gas emissions rating. Rebates are given for vehicle ratings that rank better than average, and fees are assessed for ratings that fall below average. Ensuring consumer choice for a variety of vehicles not subject to a fee, this measure is designed to include a broad middle spectrum, or "zero band," of vehicles that receive neither a rebate nor surcharge, including light trucks and SUVs, said Downing. While fuel efficiency (CAFE) standards are the province of the federal government, states are free to construct their own tax policies. The feebate structure creates revenue neutrality, as the fees assessed will cover the rebates and administrative costs of the program. The legislation is expected to be filed in mid-January by Smizik, House chairman of the Joint Committee on the Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture, when the Legislature reconvenes in formal sessions. Downing's legislative agenda contains various environmental and energy initiatives. Last week, his bill to improve air quality on school campuses statewide received a favorable report from Smizik's committee. Further, Downing has signaled his strong support for proposals to combat global warming and promote the production of renewable energy in Massachusetts. It is expected that when the Senate meets in January, its agenda will be topped by a comprehensive energy package, referred to as "An Act Relative to Green Communities."
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Central Berkshire Picks Insider Henault for Next Superintendent

By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff

Michael Henault is interviewed by the School Committee on Wednesday. 
DALTON, Mass. — The Central Berkshire Regional School Committee didn't go far to find its next superintendent. 
 
The committee voted unanimously on Wednesday to offer the post to Michael Henault, who has been the district's assistant superintendent for three years. 
 
"He is an incredible candidate. It doesn't matter for what district, and I think he is ready, and certainly chomping at the bit to take on the next challenge," said Charlotte Crane, committee member. 
 
"I suspect that we wouldn't be able to hold on again for too much longer in the assistant superintendent position." 
 
The vote came at the end of a four-hour meeting during which Henault and two other finalists — John Franzoni, superintendent of the Northern Berkshire School Union, and Matthew Bishop, interim deputy superintendent for the Pittsfield Public Schools — were interviewed. 
 
The 13 of the 15 committee members representing the seven towns in the district agreed that it was a difficult decision because of the quality of the candidates. 
 
"I'm extremely torn right now," said Ellen Lattizzori of Dalton. 
 
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