Shelia Horton, Executive Director of the Boulder Area Rental Housing Association, has recently taken up a new anti-SmartRegs talking point: the ‘No-Incentive” argument. The SmartRegs policy, in part, is meant to deal with a particular market failure, namely, the problem of the “Split-Incentive”. The split-incentive refers to the idea that there are currently no incentives to make energy efficient upgrades to rental properties. As it stands, landlords generally do not pay utility bills. As such, they have very little motivation to make energy efficient upgrades to their units. On the other side, renters have no long term commitment to the unit they rent, nor do they have the legal authority to make upgrades. Ms. Horton, playing off the split-incentive, claims there is “No-Incentive” for the city of Boulder to pass SmartRegs. This is false.
There are a number of incentives for Boulder to pass SmartRegs. First off, landlords may see a rise in their property’s value. All things equal, a more efficient property is more likely to rent. In addition, a property that has been upgraded will be more pleasant to live in and allow the property to command a higher rent price. Secondly, renters will see a decrease in the cost of their utility bills. Many students, including myself a couple years ago, face great financial pressure with tuition costs, books and materials, rent, utilities, etc. SmartRegs should help to relieve some of that pressure. Thirdly, passage of SmartRegs will get Boulder that much closer to the Kyoto Protocol’s goal; a commitment made by the city in 2002′s Kyoto Resolution. Lastly, the renovations that will occur with the passage of SmartRegs will stimulate the local economy; especially the building and construction sector. Passing SmartRegs, contrary to what Shelia Horton says, is not a “No-Incentive” proposition — it’s a no brainer.
Mathew Kenney
Boulder
Youre so cool! I dont suppose Ive read anything like this before. So nice to search out any individual with some original thoughts on this topic. realy thank you for starting this up. this site is one thing that’s wanted on the web, somebody with a bit of originality. helpful job for bringing something new to the internet!
This is really interesting, You are a very skilled blogger. I have joined your rss feed and look forward to seeking more of your great post. Also, I’ve shared your web site in my social networks!
I think this is among the most significant information for me. And i’m glad reading your article. But want to remark on some general things, The web site style is perfect, the articles is really excellent : D. Good job, cheers
I am very enjoyed for this blog. Its an informative topic. It help me very much to solve some problems. Its opportunity are so fantastic and working style so speedy. I think it may be help all of you. Thanks.
Am fortunate to be a visitor of this double dyed weblog ! , regards for this rare info !
Unquestionably believe that which you stated. Your favorite reason seemed to be on the web the simplest thing to be aware of. I say to you, I definitely get annoyed while people consider worries that they just do not know about. You managed to hit the nail upon the top and also defined out the whole thing without having side effect , people can take a signal. Will likely be back to get more. Thank you 500 rublei
Pingback: Asian Tiger Mosquito
I appreciate your post, it was interesting and compelling. I have found my way here through Google, I am going to return over again
We stumbled over here from a different website and thought I might check things out. I like what I see so now i am following you. Look forward to exploring your web page repeatedly.
I need to to thank you for this wonderful read!! I absolutely enjoyed every little bit of it. I have you bookmarked to check out new things you post…