County Planning Commission proposes ban on carbon capture pipelines amidst safety concerns

The Marshall County Plan Commission convened on July 24, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding a proposed ban on carbon capture and sequestration pipelines. The commission members expressed concerns about the environmental risks associated with these pipelines, particularly in light of past incidents, such as a pipeline rupture in Mississippi that resulted in serious health issues for nearby residents.

During the meeting, a motion was made to draft an ordinance banning the pipelines rather than imposing a temporary moratorium. This decision was influenced by the need for immediate protective measures while further research is conducted on the potential impacts of such infrastructure. The commission emphasized that the ban could be revisited in the future should more information become available regarding soil types and geological conditions.

The draft ordinance will be reviewed by legal counsel before a public hearing is scheduled. The commission clarified that their role is to recommend actions to the county commissioners, who will ultimately vote on the ordinance.

In addition to the pipeline discussion, the commission reviewed the proposed budget for the upcoming years. The budget includes provisions for salary increases, office supplies, vehicle maintenance, and training, reflecting the commission's ongoing operational needs. The total budget request for the upcoming year is approximately $21,216,046.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to advance the draft ordinance to legal review and to prepare for further discussions on the budget and other operational matters in future meetings.