Wednesday, March 13, 2013
'Not to single out one company, but doesn’t it seem odd that Range Resources is the only company dominating both local and national headlines regarding its aggressive tactics with local governments?' state Rep. Jesse White writes.
Last week, the roller coaster ride between some of the municipalities I represent and some of the extreme elements of the natural gas industry public-relations machine took a few more twists and turns. What has already been a bizarre relationship is getting more and more bizarre by the day. Last month, Robinson Township Board of Supervisors was forced to turn down two drilling permit applications when the drilling company, Range Resources, refused to submit an adequate sound study or site plan. This alone was bizarre, since Range’s lawyers were given multiple chances to correct the situation but didn’t; the lawyer refused to answer any questions at one hearing and refused to participate in another. Range spokesman Matt Pitzarella issued a …
Monday, February 25, 2013
The Southpointe-based company and its spokesman were blasted by a Wallstreet website last week.
Marcellus Shale innovator Range Resources, based in Southpointe, was criticized by a Wall Street investment website last week for taking a "shock-and-awe approach to dealing with anyone who questions the safety of its fracking operations." According to The Motley Fool story titled "Are Corporate Bullies Bad Investments?," Range Resources has "sued or intimidated activists, homeowners, and public officials, sometimes for little more than asking questions." The website sites the company's suit against Robinson Township in Washington County, as well as other incidents. "Range should pick on someone its own size," the website noted. "Naturally, the company calls this characterization unfair." Although it was not mentioned in the story, Cecil …
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Cecil Attorney John Smith said he is hopeful a hearing will be set in Commonwealth Court soon.
Lawyers for a cluster of muncipalities, one organization and a medical doctor who have challenged the state's new Marcellus Shale regulations—known as Act 13—have asked the Commonwealth Court for an expedited hearing for injunctive relief. Attorney John Smith, of Cecil, who is spearheading the legal challenge, said Tuesday that he is hopeful that the Commonwealth Court will set a hearing soon to consider the request. The goal, he said, is that an injunction would be granted, which would delay the implementation of Act 13 until the court can hear the case, and decide the merits of the consitutional challenge. Act 13 is set to go into effect April 14. Cecil Township, Peters Township, South Fayette, Robinson Township and Mt. Pleasant Township…
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Robinson Township Manager Richard A. Ward sent this letter to members of the state House and Senate as they begin a new legislative term today.
- GOVERNMENT
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Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Honorable Representatives and Senators, As you head back into session, there are many issues that will compete for your attention. One of the most important decisions you will make in the coming weeks and months will be on House Bill 1950. This piece of legislation will set the standard for gas and oil operations in the Commonwealth for the next generation. How you vote on this issue will impact the lives of every Pennsylvanian, our children, and our children’s children. To say that this is one of the most important votes you will ever make is an understatement. I bring this issue to your attention because there are many pieces of the gas an oil puzzle competing for your attention, your support and your vote. While each group has its own…
Richard W. Metzler
4:14 pm on Friday, March 15, 2013
I tip my hat to Rep.White and local officials like Brian Coppola who strive to protect public interests. Rich more ›