1/7/14 - Local Democrats are calling on Livingston County officials to better address what they perceive as threats of potential fracking operations. Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is the process by which water, sand and chemicals are pumped at high pressure deep underground to break apart rocks that contain oil and natural gas, which can then be collected. It is controversial because of the chemicals left behind, which opponents feel could creep into local water tables to harm people and the environment. The first fracking operation in Livingston County opened in Conway Township last year, and since then local municipalities have been searching for ways to resist the practice. Livingston County Democratic Party Chairwoman Judy Daubenmier says Commissioners need to think creatively about how they can help local township officials and residents that are faced with the prospect of outside corporations forcing fracking operations on them. County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Carol Griffith responded to say that she agreed with Daubenmier in that Michigan law does not allow local entities to ban fracking, nor are counties and townships able to stop the issuing of permits for wells or the operation of wells. She tells WHMI Commissioners checked with legal counsel last year in regard to fracking and have been advised that Livingston County does not have the authority to regulate the natural gas industry â thatâs a state job and Michigan has comprehensive laws and rules enforced by the Department of Environmental Quality. Griffith added that hopefully the local Democratic Party can chip in and help cover the costs of a meeting in Conway Township referred to in the press release attached below. (JM)
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