Ballot question #1 could create incentives that are unwise, unfair to citizens, and detrimental to the environment
The Northumberland Association for Progressive Stewardship board is urging registered voters to vote no on Ballot Question #1 Tuesday, November 6 (and via absentee ballot).
NAPS Urges Virginians to Vote "No" on Ballot Question #1 articulates three reasons why this proposed constitutional amendment is a bad idea:
If the U.S. Geological Survey's Chesapeake Bay division is even remotely accurate, climate change and sea rise will inundate low-lying areas over time as shown in the image of the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge below (click image to enlarge).
Hardening is only a temporary solution to what is a certain changing landscape. And while there are individuals who suffer damage from regular, and likely increased flooding, the solution needed is one for the greatest good. Perhaps an alternative, such as one that credits homeowners in frequently flooded areas to receive a buyout or incentive for moving, is a more viable option.
NAPS Urges Virginians to Vote "No" on Ballot Question #1 articulates three reasons why this proposed constitutional amendment is a bad idea:
- It is "fundamentally unwise for any incentives to be given for building or rebuilding on land with recurrent flooding, especially in a tidal region where relative sea levels are expected to continue rising."
- Hardening the shoreline negatively impacts abutting properties. Increased "flooding and erosion from the inflow reflected by the protected neighboring property" is common.
- "Where municipalities offer tax relief, waterfront developers would gain an additional incentive to purchase and build up low-lying properties, further exacerbating flooding of neighboring residents and working waterfronts."
If the U.S. Geological Survey's Chesapeake Bay division is even remotely accurate, climate change and sea rise will inundate low-lying areas over time as shown in the image of the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge below (click image to enlarge).
Hardening is only a temporary solution to what is a certain changing landscape. And while there are individuals who suffer damage from regular, and likely increased flooding, the solution needed is one for the greatest good. Perhaps an alternative, such as one that credits homeowners in frequently flooded areas to receive a buyout or incentive for moving, is a more viable option.