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P__._ Dece m ber 17, 2003 ~i Brian L. Jennison, Ph.D., Director Lane Regional Air Pollution Authority 1010 Main Street j Springfield OR 97477 i Dear Mr. Jennison: I The City of Eugene is officially committing staff time to the Smart Lane group and to its first endeavor, the Lane Clean Diesel Project. The City agrees that the time is right to create an action-oriented group that will simultaneously tackle issues of community health and economic development. This will only be accomplished with the cooperation of community, business and governmental leaders. We believe that the Lane Clean Diesel Project is a good first project to generate momentum. The particulate from diesel engines is a major air quality concern in our area. And while diesel engines are a critical part of the local and national economy in many ways, this impact to environmental and public health can be addressed with technologies and fuels that are readily available. The City has replaced all diesel fuel in City fuel pumps with bio-diesel B20. B20 is a blend of diesel fuel (80%) and biodiesel (20%), aclean-burning alternative fuel produced from renewable resources, such as vegetable oils. After testing this new fuel in several vehicles, we are able to use biodiesel B20 in any diesel engine without any modifications. Biodiesel does, however, dissolve dirt and carbon deposits requiring regular replacement of fuel filters. This new fuel meets the City's goals for sustainability and environmental stewardship by using domestic, renewable resource, and reducing dependence on non- sustainable fossil fuels. Biodiesel B-20 also substantially reduces tailpipe emissions of unburned hydrocarbons and other pollutants, cutting smog and ozone, and reduces the health risk of certain cancers. Many of the organizations in Lane County are pursuing clean diesel in fits and starts. But the lack of a coordinated effort has made it difficult to overcome the two greatest objections to using clean diesel -cost and accessibility to the fuel. By assembling the Smart Lane group and creating a unified, agreed upon ~ purchasing strategy, the demand will be properly demonstrated. In turn, the private sector will be able to supply the fuel at a cost and at locations that are accessible. This will pave the way for small and medium I sized businesses to participate throughout Lane County. i i To conclude, we recommend that the EPA support this endeavor to help us create a trul health economy. Y Y i Sincerely, i k James R. Carlson Assistant City Manager I . i