To the editor:
As a registered but unaffiliated voter in House District 11, I strongly support the reelection of Rep. Susan Emerson, and encourage everyone who can to vote for her in the Republican primary on Sept. 9.
On the day after the November election in 2014, Tennessee Gas Pipeline filed as an alternative route to its NED pipeline a northern route that would run through both Fitzwilliam and Rindge. When I found out two days later, I used Rindge tax maps, the phone book, and online information to personally contact as many affected property owners in Rindge as I could to let them know about the alternative route proposal. I’m sure some of the readers of this letter remember my call. When I informed the Rindge town administrator, I learned that Rindge was, up to that point, completely unaware of the unfolding events regarding the pipeline.
Rep. Emerson, from that day until this, has worked tirelessly to oppose the NED pipeline. Because of her extensive contacts on both sides of the aisle in Concord, she was able to put together of coalition of legislators and Executive Council members to help in the fight against the pipeline. Eventually the alternative pipeline route that cut through Fitzwilliam and Rindge became the primary route, and the fight against the pipeline became a classic David vs. Goliath story.
Due in large part to Susan Emerson’s efforts and the efforts of other legislators who worked closely with her, as well as the hard work of countless volunteers from all political stripes, Tennessee Gas Pipeline ultimately withdrew its application from the Federal Environmental Regulatory Commission. Efforts continue in Concord to pass legislation that will make it more difficult in the future to push through such boondoggles.
If space permitted, I could go on to list many other reasons to vote for Susan Emerson on Sept. 9, but for me, Susan’s stance against the pipeline and against unfettered eminent domain is paramount. In the GOP District 11 primary, I will vote for Susan Emerson, and strongly encourage Republicans and independents to do likewise.
And if you are a Democrat, please write in Susan Emerson on your ballot to represent District 11 in the N.H. House of Representatives. Susan Emerson represents us all. Return the favor.
David Lister
Rindge