Cecil Township Proposes 2,500 Foot Setback Ordinance From Oil & Gas Infrastructure For Sept. 4 Hearing In Washington County

  Cecil Township, Washington County, is scheduled to hold a hearing September 4 on a proposed oil and gas ordinance that includes a 2,500 foot setback from all protected structures in the township, according to the Center for Coalfield Justice.

"This is exciting news after months of organizing and several hearings where residents advocated for this setback in an effort to protect their families," said the Center in a press release.  "Cecil residents are encouraged to attend, and will be able to provide public comments on the new proposal at the hearing."

The Center said, "Immediately following the public hearing, Cecil Township will hold a Special Meeting to address amendments to its oil and gas ordinance. A vote will not take place on the 4th; one additional hearing will be needed in order for the Board to consider final comments and vote after this proposal has met all the requirements for public notice.

"This is not a ban on drilling in Cecil Township. There are five existing well pads that will be grandfathered in and that cover more than 60% of the township. 

"In addition, landowners who want to waive the 2,500 foot setback and have drilling on their property can do so, as long as everyone within that buffer zone agrees."

"Many residents' pleas to the board for increased setback distances are based on their negative experiences of living near well pads and or the growing list of peer-reviewed research linking poor health outcomes to people living in close proximity to fracking.

The hearing will be held at the Cecil Township Municipal Building, 3599 Millers Run Road, Cecil starting at 6:00 p.m.  A Board of Supervisors special meeting is scheduled to follow at 7:00 p.m.

Questions should be directed to Lisa DePaoli, lisa@centerforcoalfieldjustice.org or call  412-229-7116.

Visit the  Center for Coalfield Justice website for more information.  

(Photo: Shale gas drill pad flare from bedroom window of a home that meets current 500 foot state setbacks.)

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[Posted: September 3, 2024]  PA Environment Digest