Over the last few years, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of fully electric and plug-in electric hybrid vehicles sold in the United States. Nearly every major automotive company in the world sells a plug-in vehicle. I am in the process of purchasing an electric vehicle and would like to encourage the town of Siloam to install an EV Charger. I and many others currently would have to drive to Lowell for any of our fast-charging needs, which is not be very time or cost-effective.

With the recent announcement from the Norwest Arkansas Planning Commission to make 412 an EV charging corridor, this addition to our town would only give Siloam Springs a head start on what is already to take place. It was also recently announced that the Inflation Reduction Act that new EV purchasers are eligible for a $7,500 tax credit. This influx of money is sure to benefit local businesses and dealerships in Siloam. As a rapidly growing town with new businesses popping up every week, we don’t want to be behind in this rapidly changing transportation evolution.

If Siloam encouraged the growth and use of electric vehicles, it would show that Siloam is a town that cares about the future of green and renewable energy. The charging station would also bring in a great amount of money through taxes as it would be one of only two fast charging stations in NWA. If positioned correctly (in front of existing businesses, downtown, or near the parks), the charger could drive direct sales/tourism to the beautiful parts of Siloam that most 412 travelers never see.

The market for electric vehicles is rapidly expanding and now is the best time to begin planning for the increasing demand for access to charging equipment. The ability to provide charging as an amenity will also attract and retain highly valued, eco-conscious residents. Additionally, more electric vehicles in our parking structure will reduce emissions and improve overall air quality.

I also believe this could be a great collaboration with larger local businesses such as Tyson, Cobb, Simmons, McKee, Gates, and many others, as electric work vehicles are rapidly being adopted. I have seen this firsthand as the company I work for just purchased 15 new all-electric trucks for use in traveling across the county. These companies may be willing to provide the land/funding needed for charging stations if they also realize the benefit that these stations can have on the city.

Help Siloam Springs by signing this petition to help encourage the City of Siloam to take this much-needed step towards a better future for Siloam.