As a longtime Augusta resident, I’m excited that our community will soon have access to natural gas. This means many families, homeowners and businesses will be able to reduce their energy costs and provide an economic boost for our local economy. Recently, the city decided to select Summit Natural Gas of Maine to provide natural gas for city buildings and local schools, a decision that will lead to an annual savings of more than $600,000.

As a retired school principal and teacher in the Augusta and Gardiner school systems, I know that these savings will help our schools and improve educational opportunities.

Summit has shown it is committed to the community. While its investment of $350 million in the Kennebec Valley speaks volumes of its financial commitment, the company and its employees have demonstrated their strong personal values and the importance they place on relationships with their current and future customers, something that was evident from their participation recently in the Old Hallowell Day parade. Their community-minded “Green Team” had adults and children smiling in the streets of Hallowell, indicating it is a different type of utility company.

Summit is invested in our community and dedicated to bringing natural gas to not only Augusta, but the entire community. I applaud councilors for their diligence and thorough research to select Summit Natural Gas of Maine because it was a smart decision for the long term and it is the smartest decision for our community.

Cheryl Clukey

Augusta