[Executive summary from the report of the WELL's Energy Committee. This and other WELL reports can be found at willitseconomiclocalization.org.

Read the full report here (PDF).]
---

Executive Summary
Willits is at a crossroads with the growing interest of those south of us for our relatively low home (and land) prices, the decline of local employment, and the increasing energy expenses we all face.

When the energy costs alone are examined, our area spends nearly $30 million a year to firms outside of our area – monies that could be put to work right here in the community to stimulate the local economy and grow jobs.

Looking into the future, fossil fuels are in an undisputed decline and their costs have already begun a marked increase. Given that the average household in our area now spends over 20% of their take home income on energy products, one cannot foresee a recovering local economy and sustainable community unless we begin to take action now.

By taking steps now to change the way we assign fees to building permits (with respect to their energy saving considerations), the potential consideration of carbon taxes, the exploration and use of potential local energy sources, as well as simple conservation steps,
Willits can become a leader for communities around the US in demonstrating economic localization and sustainability -- all while increasing local revenue streams & employment and reducing our vulnerability to political and economic turmoil.