In response to the July 27th editorial regarding the need for public input on LIPA’s proposed off-shore wind project, I want to promise the residents of the area that we will go out of our way to make sure that anyone who wants to be heard, either pro or con, on this important project will be heard before a final decision is made.

I can understand some of the esthetic concerns that are being raised but it is critical for people to know that if we don’t build a wind project we will likely have to build a power plant somewhere on the South Shore. The dramatic increase in the use of electricity this summer points to the need for additional resources if we want to keep the lights on and the air conditioners humming. Everyone wants to use more and more electricity but no one wants to support the construction of resources necessary to provide it.

I truly believe that the off-shore wind project is critically important to Long Island and the nation. We must reduce our dependence on OPEC and oil - especially as oil prices are now approaching $70 a barrel. If we can’t build a wind project here on Long Island, then we might as well give our wallets over to OPEC and let them decide our future for us.

Believe me when I tell you that the choice is not between building or not building the wind project but rather between the wind project and power plants with stacks and emissions. I hope that the Massapequa Post will take a leadership role here in recognizing the needs of Long Island and the residents of Massapequa at the same time.

Richard M. Kessel

Chairman

LIPA