Quarter Century Club Member Lauds Prospects of Cash for Caulkers Program

EVERETT, WA - Congressman Rick Larsen, Chamber President/CEO Louise Stanton-Masten and Government Affairs Manager Patrick Pierce toured Evergreen State Heat & A/C last Tuesday in a continuing effort by both the Congressman and the Chamber to be attentive to the needs of our community’s small businesses.

In addition to the discussion about Evergreen State's business model and the impacts of the economic recession, owner Russ Kimball explained the importance of energy-efficiency tax credits and the proposed Cash for Caulkers program to not only his industry, but also the country.

"These programs have numerous benefits for the economy and other national agendas. Incentives provide immediate jobs for the nation's most decimated sectors - construction and manufacturers and wholesalers of building materials." Kimball continues, "Unlike stimulus funds, there is no lag time. They create immediate jobs which have a multiplier effect in our community."

Similar to the message conveyed at the Chamber's emPOWERing Business conference this spring, the group discussed the how Cash for Caulkers and energy-effeciency credits help to reduce a business' overhead expenses by reducing the cost of space heating and in-turn increase profitability. Often times small business owners have to choose the lowest cost option which is usually not the most efficient. Incentives help make energy-effecient equipment and building weatherization close to revenue-neutral and in some cases revenue-positive.

These incentives also expand the market for energy-efficient equipment both rewarding manufactures for their R&D efforts and lowering the cost of this technology for the average consumer. Additional benefits also include reducing our dependence on foreign oil and improved air and water quality.

The Chamber will continue to work with our congressional delegation and local utilities to promote smart, cost-efficient ways for our small business members to save money by saving energy. If you have questions or are interested in setting up a business visit with the Chamber, please contact Patrick Pierce, (425) 257-3222 x211.

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