Letter to the Editor: South Tahoe Youth climate group endorses Scott Robbins and John Friedrich for city council

At this point in time, the intersection between equity and climate change has never been clearer. The Sunrise Movement is a national youth climate group that is seeking a future that’s not only sustainable, but also just. With only 11 years left to transform our economy away from fossil fuels to avoid the worst effects of climate change, we need to elect officials now who will defend our future. The remedies for unsustainable practices must work for everyone in this city. That’s why we’re endorsing John Friedrich and Scott Robbins for the city council of South Lake Tahoe.

John is the most climate conscious candidate on the ballot. He is actively working for a just and livable future for our generation. John founded the Tahoe Green Jobs Coalition, which is working to bring good jobs that don’t come at the cost of our environment. The tourism industry is notoriously fickle, and often has ecological consequences. That’s why we need stable employment opportunities for locals that protect our home. He’s part of the South Lake Tahoe 100% renewable committee. He has also served as the program director at the League to Save Lake Tahoe.

Scott Robbins wants to be the voice of equity in the council. You may have seen him at the Black Lives Matter protests at the commons, or standing at the roundabout in Meyers with a sign that says “stop littering.” He supports the reallocation of police funding to services that go to the root of policing issues. He believes that confronting over tourism and fire danger should be among our top priorities. Affordable and sustainable development are projects he wants the city to focus more on. This is why he opposes the loop road project, which would demolish a large amount of low income housing.

Each of these candidates will work for our future. As a youth group, we are chillingly aware of the personal implications of climate change and inequity. It is our future we are voting for, and we hope these endorsements encourage you to think about both young people and those without political power here in Tahoe.

Sage Alexander, STHS/LTCC graduate and member of the Sunrise Movement, South Lake Tahoe Hub

Knilah Penn, LTCC student and member of Sunrise Movement, South Lake Tahoe Hub