Public information lacking on Bakken

Our government is based on the attempt to protect the rights of individuals and the common good. Since 1776, we have experienced swings in both directions and grown stronger as a nation. In Iowa, we are facing water quality, agricultural, energy choices and economic development issues. Making good decisions depends on our right to know and media providing reliable information.

The proposed Bakken pipeline will cross Iowa passing under our rivers and land. The limited liability corporation information and media coverage has framed the discussion simply as pitting environmental concerns against job creation and economic benefits. What has given this drama more depth is the issue of ‘eminent domain'.

How does state government give an international corporation the right to take and use an individual's land? How does a profit driven private corporation, dependent on eminent domain, need only the approval of three people, politically appointed by the governor to the Iowa Utilities Board? How do three people in a manner of a few months determine what is in the long-term interest of private individuals and the public good? These are legitimate questions and need reliable information to make a good decision.

I have attended two public meetings presented by the corporation and still have many questions. Public information is lacking concerning safety, corporate liability and exaggerated economic benefits. The push to have this project approved seems highly suspect. What is the hurry, as it appears this project will not be good for individual rights or for the common good?

Mark S. Edwards

Boone