Title
Oil & Gas Public Outreach
Body
Summary and Background Information:
While oil and natural gas extraction has occurred for many years in the areas being annexed into Commerce City the new level of activity is presenting challenges and concerns for residents and the City. The move from single vertical wells to pads containing multiple wells that are not only drilled vertically but then also horizontally, opens up the entire northern range of the city for extraction of the mineral rights.
The intent is to obtain public input regarding the residents’ concerns and to provide them with information. There are at least two ways of holding a public forum: a town hall meeting or an open house with booths/tables for different topics. Staff is more inclined toward holding an open house since that would better utilize people’s time since multiple people can be writing their comments at the same time. But, we wanted to ask what Council prefers.
In addition, regarding what topics does Council wish to receive presentations? Possible topics include:
• Environmental Issues: Air, Health, Water
• Geology of Basin
• Seismic Issues
• Financials
• Transportation Impacts: Pipelines vs Trucks
• Emergency Response
• Impact Fees: Transportation & Emergency Equipment
• RMA National Wildlife Refuge Issues
Is there other information that Council wants?
Staff Responsible (Department Head): Roger Tinklenberg
Staff Member Presenting: Roger Tinklenberg
Financial Impact: N/A
Funding Source: N/A
Staff Recommendation: Provide direction to staff regarding the proposed public outreach plan regarding oil and natural gas extraction.
Suggested Motion: Provide direction to staff regarding the proposed public outreach plan regarding oil and natural gas extraction.