I am writing as a representative of the Marbleworks Partnership in response to John Beattie’s letter in the Nov. 9 edition of the Independent.
Yes, Vermont Gas is putting in the underground infrastructure for natural gas in the Marbleworks. We are converting only one or possibly two of our 30 or so furnaces from propane to natural gas. We will continue to give Tad Fyles the bulk of our heating dollars for many years to come. We are very happy with the excellent service that Tad has given us for many years.
I’m uncertain of who Mr. Beattie is or where he’s getting his information or why he’s decided to single us out as the villains who are unsupportive of the local economy. I think there are a number of other businesses around town who will be much larger customers of Vermont Gas than we will ever be. By the way, Seth Haven and his crew, many of whom are local, who are installing the underground lines have been very professional and have been supportive of many of our businesses in the Marbleworks while working here.
Kim Smith
Middlebury
Editor’s note: We spoke with John Beattie and he said his intention was not to single out the Marbleworks Partnership in his letter, but was simply to raise the issue that local people should buy local. He said he mentioned the Marbleworks because he saw the pipeline workers in the neighborhood, not because he held any animus toward that business.