New Lisbon board holds public hearing on proposed local law to bar heavy industry, including gas drilling

The New Lisbon Town Board convened a special public hearing Oct. 25, 2011, on proposed Local Law #2-2011, a draft ordinance that would prohibit heavy industry — drafted in response to residents’ concerns about gas drilling. Supervisor Robert Taylor opened the meeting and said the town sent the draft to the Otsego County Planning Department for review.

Residents offered mixed views but a large majority of commenters opposed gas drilling. "Approximately 75% of those voicing an opinion have been against gas drilling," Supervisor Taylor said, explaining his decision to back the proposal despite having signed a lease in the past. Supporters warned of long-term environmental damage and property-value losses; opponents said the law would infringe landowners’ rights.

Councilman Edward Lentz cited regional estimates of recoverable gas and questioned the tradeoffs: "They estimate there are 84 trillion cubic feet of gas in the Marcellus shale region. The annual usage of gas in the country is 24 trillion cubic feet," he said, arguing the supply would amount to only a few years of national use. Councilman Robert Eklund noted the state legislature was working on Home Rule legislation that could affect local authority on drilling regulations.

After public comment, the board voted 5-0 to postpone closing the public hearing until the Nov. 10, 2011 regular meeting so it can await the county planning review and allow additional comment. The board also noted a Nov. 10 public meeting at SUCO about proposed DEC regulations; the DEC comment period was stated to remain open through Dec. 12, 2011.