Council approves 3D seismic survey permit with $1.5M bond; staff to monitor operations

Roosevelt City Council approved a 3D seismic survey proposal after reviewing updated site exhibits, compensation terms and bond levels. Field representative Doug Moore said staff had worked on GPS locations for planned vibrator points and that the proposal included increased compensation and an increased bond amount. Council cited a five‑year bond and asked about bond sufficiency and the process for addressing potential damages.

Seismic consultant Bruce Lindsay addressed council questions about infrastructure risk, saying that, in his experience, "damage from seismic is immediate," and that most utilities would either be struck directly or show immediate evidence of damage. Lindsay and another expert described damage as rare when proper site practices (such as avoiding placing a vibrator pad directly on buried infrastructure) are followed.

Council members pressed on monitoring and remediation procedures; staff told the council it would provide site oversight (blue‑stake marking and on‑site staff during operations) and that the bond and insurance provisions would be relied on for compensation if damage occurred. Industry representatives said the 3D data improves drilling targeting and can reduce surface disturbance by informing pad placements.

Following discussion, a council member moved to approve the seismic testing agreement under the reviewed terms and with on‑site staff oversight; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. The city will require the contractor to provide exact shot locations in advance and coordinate with utilities and public works while holding the stated bond and insurance.