A good relationship between state government and the energy industry typically provides job growth and a shared commitment for adherence to environmental laws. Unfortunately, some liberal groups in Ohio feel companies like Chesapeake and nonprofit groups such as the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation are working too closely with state governmental offices.
On one hand liberal lawmakers want to foster "green" jobs and compromises across party lines, yet they oppose a communicative scenario when a Republican governor takes the reins.
Earlier this year, Ohio lawmakers established air pollution standards relating to shale gas wells. Ohio Environmental Protection Agency officials accepted advice from the Chesapeake Energy Co. Shale leases are new in Ohio, but not so with the reputable company. How can seeking the guidance from industry experts who routinely work with both the positive and negative aspects of shale drilling be a bad thing?
An article in the Columbus Dispatch on the topic featured a thinly veiled liberal slant against the Ohio agriculture industry and conservative office holders. The Ohio Farm Bureau Federation's Dale Arnold was chastised for recommending visiting the Chesapeake website for a complete list of chemicals used in the hydraulic shale fracturing process. Arnold is an expert on planting, not shale drilling. Referring to an in-depth list from a reputable source is both informative and responsible.
Buckeye Environmental Network Director Teresa Mills believes energy industry regulators and government have been "too cozy" for years and the public does not enjoy the same access. Outreach by energy companies is no less uncommon or vile than relations with auto manufacturers, solar panels plants or strip mall developers.
If you want to revitalize the private sector and build a strong tax base responsibly, it only makes sense to seek input from those who actually work in the field. Would speculation about past shale drilling problems be better left to professional lobbyists and untrained individuals?
Public access is always important and not impeded upon in Ohio. Officials from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources have also been an integral part of the shale drilling debate. Proceeds from leased well spaces in state parks will help pay for more than $500 million in necessary repairs and maintenance.
The protection of Ohio's drinking water and natural resources are not taking a back seat to job growth. Thanks to Gov. John Kasich, natural gas will provide a clean energy alternative in the state. Kasich is negotiating with automakers to locate a plant in the region to manufacture vehicles that can run on natural gas, reducing our reliance on both foreign oil and fossil fuels.
Reaching across the political aisle and working with both the EPA and energy companies will results in a well-rounded, safe and lucrative endeavor for Ohioans. Private sector jobs and tax revenue generated from shale leases will aid local services levies in the fairly impoverished regions of southeastern Ohio.
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