FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
Mountain Maryland Energy Advisory Committee Seeks Public Solutions
 
OAKLAND, Md. – April 1, 2014 –Furthering dialogue about local energy production, the Mountain Maryland Energy Advisory Committee (MMEAC) solicited energetic ideas from the public at today’s meeting of the Garrett County Board of Commissioners. After giving a brief update on the committees work to date, the MMEAC enlisted the public’s help generating new, energy- focused initiatives.
 
Created in November 2013, the MMEAC advises the Garrett & Allegany County Commissioners on local and state policy, regulation, programs, and legislation issues. Together, they guide energy planning in an attempt to maximize positive effects and minimize potentially negative consequences of energy production. Representing a diversity of perspectives, the 12 committee members are private citizens, business owners, and leaders in economic development (Garrett & Allegany County representatives), health, education, and recreation.
 
Since their inception, the MMEAC has explored a range of energy topics, and generated numerous ideas on energy production. While three initiatives are slated for more focused review, the MMEAC seeks additional fresh ideas from the general public.
 
“Great ideas fuel our future,” said Committee Chairman Mike Koch, who also serves as Garrett County’s Executive Director of Community Planning & Development. “Energy development is an important part of our economic future, but we need to chart our course thoughtfully and responsibly. Public participation diversifies ideas and deepens this dialogue.”
 
Citizens may formally submit their ideas using the form available on the MMAEC website at: http://garrettcounty.org/energy/mountain-maryland-energy-advisory-committee or by completing a hard copy form at the Garrett County Office of Economic Development (Garrett County Courthouse, Room 208). All energy-related ideas are welcomed, such as ideas that address:
 
·   Energy finance, credits, and incentives
·   Energy efficiency initiatives
·   Alternative fuels
·   Renewable energy
·   Waste to energy
 
New ideas generated by the committee and local citizens will be explored during monthly committee meetings, all of which are open to the public. Meetings, featuring presentations from energy professionals, are held the third Wednesday of every month from 3-5 pm in Room 103 of the Garrett Information Enterprise Center on the Garrett College campus. Viable solutions, in turn, will be reviewed by the MMEAC and committee recommendations will be forwarded on for consideration by the Board of County Commissioners.
 
The MMAEC will hold its next meeting on Wednesday, April 16. To explore all energy initiatives within Garrett County, visit http://garrettcounty.org/energy/.
 
About Garrett County, Maryland:
Nestled in the mountains of Western Maryland, Garrett County features high elevations—and higher opportunities for prosperity. Lured by an abundance of resources and natural beauty, over 900 businesses elevate their workforce—and profit margins—in Garrett County. Boasting a solid workforce and affordable real estate, Garrett County blends modern conveniences with country living. Efficient by design, our technology and transportation infrastructure redefine rural life, offering convenience and proximity to key markets.
 
In Garrett County, we’re reinventing rural. Mindful of our agrarian roots, we support the organic growth of innovation.  Visit: www.reinventingrural.com to learn more.
 
MEDIA CONTACT:
Sandy Sponaugle
[email protected]
(301) 358-9255