MEMBERS of the Flinders Zero Carbon Community were disappointed to see newly erected signs displaying the town’s move to net zero emissions by 2030 painted over.
Mark Aarons said the vandalism had cost ratepayers’ money and was against the community sentiment for taking local action to make a difference to climate change.
“It would seem to be done by someone who doesn’t agree with the net zero message,” he said.
Installation of the signs, as well as other work of the group, are supported by the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and another volunteer group called eMPower.
Flinders is the first satellite community as part of a future decarbonisation and renewables energy network in the shire.
“It’s disappointing to see someone felt the need resort to vandalism, forcing the council to redo the designs and leaving the cost for ratepayers,” Mr Aarons said.
The mayor Cr Anthony Marsh said the signs had been taken to the shire’s depot to see if the paint could be removed.
“While it’s disappointing that the sign has been defaced, we’re thrilled our community is taking a proactive approach to climate change,” he said.
“We were happy to partner with the Flinders Community Association to install these signs as part of our commitment to providing direct support for community climate action.
“It’s great to see the association fully supporting council’s goal of net-zero emissions across the peninsula.
Flinders Zero Carbon Community’s next planned event is on Easter Saturday 16 April, and will focus on providing information on electric cars.
For details about climate action got to mornpen.vic.gov.au/climatechange or Facebook, Flinders Zero Carbon Community
First published in the Mornington News – 12 April 2022