Letter: Vote for Vanorny is a vote for environment

All mayoral and City Council candidates spoke about the need for flood protection. Yet few of them talk about or publicly acknowledge that human-caused climate change makes flooding in Cedar Rapids more likely. We need flood protection, but we need long-term climate solutions even more.

City Council District 5 candidate Ashley Vanorny understands this well. Vanorny exudes a passion to reduce emissions, increase renewable energy, and make Cedar Rapids more sustainable.

We have made progress, but much work remains. Vanorny will push innovative solutions such as non-traditional recycling of cigarette butts and multi-foil, energy production from solid waste, and industrial reuse and re-purpose. These and other ideas will help the environment and make Cedar Rapids a more attractive place to live.

Reducing emissions and increasing sustainability will create jobs, improve public health, and increase the quality of life for all Cedar Rapidians.

The runoff election will help set the direction for our city. Will we maintain the status quo, or will we vote for fresh leadership who will lead us forward? Vanorny will be that leader. On Dec. 5, vote for Cedar Rapids' future - a future that is better, cleaner, and more prosperous. Vote Ashley Vanorny as District 5 City Council member.

Caleb Gates

Cedar Rapids