Well update

About a dozen people from our street met with council reps Ed Hargate, Cathy Murphy, and Scott Mills on Saturday at the home of Marybeth and Frank Skala. Many people on our street, while not against gas wells in general, were concerned that Bass Energy was moving too fast on drilling. Some even suggested that this was being done on purpose so that residents could not voice opposition and stop the drilling. There were more questions than answers from this meeting.

The planning and zoning commission meeting on Monday was very interesting. In addition to the Bass Energy part of the meeting we heard about the new Crostados restaurant at the end of our street. Someone said they were very happy to see this investment in Highland Heights.

At the meeting, the Bass Energy representative said Bass Energy was preparing to drill at the end of the week. Mr. Mastrangelo spoke for the planning and zoning committee and said that Bass Energy did not have approval to drill. The Bass Energy rep said they were not aware that they needed this approval.

The Bass Energy rep said that some drillers were good and some were bad. Some just go in to get a quick buck. Hmmmm, which one is Bass Energy? Did they really not know they needed approval? Will they really start drilling this week? Was it the mayor who told Bass Energy they have the ok to drill, not mentioning Highland Heights has a law stating City Council approval is needed before drilling can begin?

The Bass Energy rep said his company has leased very expensive equipment and needs to start the drilling before the lease runs out.

We drafted a petition asking that council get details before giving approval to drill. Over 100 people signed this petition. This is what the petition said.

We believe that the decision to proceed with gas well drilling in the woods in Highland Heights Park is proceeding too quickly and needs further study.

We request that Highland Heights City Council make no decision concerning gas well drilling in the Highland Heights park for one year.

If I wake up this week with a hundred trees down in my back yard, at least, I will know why. More later. Lots more.