I think it came out of the frustration of the City Council meeting that we all attended, particularly the Thursday one, where they tried to cut off the debate. They tolerate the public's discussion, but they don't really involve the public in the decision.

I realize the frustration of filling up with $2.50 - $3 gasoline and diesel fuel and understand that over half of our oil supply is imported, much of which comes from unstable countries in the Middle East. Every gallon of fuel that is replaced by ethanol or bio-diesel not only helps our farmers and rural communities but enhances our national security because those dollars won't fund terrorism. Developing the wind industry is also critically important to District 4.

Certainly the petition is one way to get the public involved. I'm not sure what the ultimate goal of the petition is.

We want to see something that's going to be a win-win for everybody and not just for one segment of the population.

So far we've gotten just a few contributions here and there.

We want people to have the right to express their concerns and frustration and protest in a peaceful manner.