Group to Place Anti-Fracking Amendment on Ballot

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Activists opposed to the use of hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking,” have the required number of signatures to place the so-called community bill of rights charter amendment before voters for the sixth time, they say.

The charter amendment would ban shale gas development – which includes fracking and injection wells – within the city limits.

“We have received an overwhelmingly positive response from the community this year, and we thank them,” said Lynn Anderson, member of the Community Bill of Rights Committee. “We believe voters are increasingly voting ‘yes’ with us, in part, because they are seeing the truth and scientific facts about fracking and related processes.”

The group plans to place the charter amendment on the ballot for the general election in November.

Voters have rejected the measure during five previous elections. The last time the amendment came before voters was in November 2015. The measure was defeated 51.4% to 48.5%.

“Greater numbers of people are becoming more fully informed, aware – and are concerned as time goes on,” said committee member Susie Beiersdorfer. “I believe this response is related to the large body of scientific studies that point to documented risks associated with shale gas development.”

Members of the committee say they will hold a press conference outside of City Hall at 1:30 Monday. The group will then deliver the petitions to the Youngstown Clerk of Council.

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.