Regular meeting (Public Comment – J. DeFors, 10/8/2024)

**Executive Summary**

**General Comments:** Joe DeFors, a Leelanau Township resident and former Chair of the Leelanau County Energy Futures Task Force, presents his public comment at the October 8, 2024 Board of Commissioners meeting. He addresses what he views as the spread of misinformation and environmental myths by a candidate for the Board, Mr. Jim White, as well as a sitting commissioner. DeFors highlights White’s reliance on sources like the Northwood University paper “Grading the Grid,” which he labels as “junk science,” while ignoring the consensus of 98% of the world’s scientists.

**Specific Concerns:** DeFors criticizes White for using information from a biased source and calls attention to the candidate’s hypocrisy due to his past employment with Pepsi, a company known for environmental issues. He also accuses a sitting commissioner of a conflict of interest, pointing out her financial interests in utility boards and oil and gas wells, contrasting them with her criticism of DeFors’ role in the solar grant.

**Call to Action:** DeFors urges support for candidates who approach governance with seriousness and a commitment to facts. He concludes by thanking those who have challenged the Task Force, noting that their actions have increased public attention.

**Supporting Information:** DeFors provides a list of reputable resources for further education on clean energy and climate change, including organizations like the US Department of Energy, the International Energy Agency, and various universities. He also includes links to articles debunking common myths about solar power.