ENERGY AND RESOURCES AD HOC COMMITTEE
MEETING MINUTES
MAY 19, 2010
** NOT APPROVED **
Members Present: F.
Sinclair, K. LaForge, G. Benson, C. Crandall
Others Present: D. Pullen, M. Healy, T. Hopkins, D. Fanton, J. Margeson, T. Miner, M.
Alger, B. Rigby Riehle, J. Foels, J. Garmong, K. Dirlam, L. Gridley, M.
Johnson, J. Scott, Sheriff Tompkins, R. Hall and NYS Trooper Gresham
Call to Order: The
meeting was called to order by Acting Chairman Fred Sinclair at 9:10 a.m.
Approval of Minutes
A motion was made by Legislator Benson, seconded by Chairman Sinclair and carried for approval of the April 21, 2010 minutes.
Recommendations of Marcellus Shale Exploration
There was discussion regarding the environmental regarding leachate testing for NORM in landfills and to research and monitor heavy metals in leachate. The Allegany County Health Department is awaiting word on their review. It was noted that the recommended levels of metals are “at or below” what they are receiving, but it’s positive to keep monitoring levels.
Landholder Education
It was recommended an educational piece be distributed throughout the county for landowners. Legislator Pullen suggested that Cornell Cooperative Extension would have information that local businesses might not have and perhaps they could assist by being the implemental arm to gather information and help design the educational piece. There was consensus to contact Cooperative Extension for assistance.
Workforce Education
There is interest in getting a head
start on gathering information so we can advise those individuals interested in
getting into the gas and oil industry; such as welders, equipment operators,
geologists, etc. A
J. Garmong reported there is a
need for workers in this industry. There
is a CDL driver starting next week in
Legislator LaForge suggested J. Garmong contact Penn Tech, as they will have information to pursue. There is also a training consortium between Alfred and JCC which provides housing for students and they can conform to meet needs.
Local Government and Infrastructure
There was discussion on what the county needs to do to advise townships on their infrastructure concerns. Legislature Pullen remarked, as town attorney for many of the townships, he stays informed on the regulations regarding truck routes, weights and limits and local laws.
Legislator Sinclair asked if
townships can enter into host agreements if they know the drilling is
coming. Legislator Pullen said this is
not his expertise area but doesn’t believe we can mandate, however, a township
can force the issue if permits and weight limits are in place. Legislator LaForge raised the question if
townships have road bonding in place as this usually works well. Legislator Pullen noted if a weight limit
local law exists, bonding can be posted and permits received and you can go
against the bond for restoration of roadway.
Insurance companies prefer not to pay on bonds invoked by companies
doing the work, therefore, companies are more inclined to perform a decent job
on repairs so they can get future bonding.
Legislator Fanton reported the
Local Government / Population / Related Issues
Legislator Sinclair spoke with
the Greater Allegany County Chamber of Commerce (GACC) regarding information
received from the Pennsylvania Gas Expo.
The
Outdoor Wood Burning Furnaces
With no further actions or comments, a motion was made by Legislator LaForge, seconded by Legislator Sinclair and carried to adjourn the meeting at 9:47 a.m.
Respectfully Submitted:
Cathleen L. Whitfield
Recording Secretary